Getting back into routine after Seollal

Doctors recommend exercise, sufficient sleep and vitamins


After four days off for Seollal, getting back into your normal routine can be a challenge. Long drives, lots of cooking and family gatherings can make the holiday less than restful, leaving you dreading a return to work.

“The holiday life cycle is quite different from your ordinary routine. It wears you out. You need to make effort to regain energy,” said Dr. Kang Hee-chul of Yonsei Severance Hospital. 

Here are five ways to help you ease back into your everyday routine.

1. Exercise on the first day after the holiday: Rest is important, but doing simple freehand exercises and stretching every 2-3 hours at work will help you stay awake and alert. Taking a stroll during lunch is also recommended.

2. Avoid drinking for a week: Drinking is one of the worst ways to start fresh at work. Go home early for about a week, get to sleep early and take some time to rest.

3. Keep your regular sleeping schedule: Most holiday fatigue stems from a broken sleeping rhythm. Try to wake up at your normal time. If you lack sleep, take a nap in the afternoon.

4. Try to save the last day to recharge: On the last day of the holiday, it is best to get enough rest. Enjoying small talk with the family or listening to music will help you regain energy and balance within your body.

5. Take vitamins: Especially if you are a student, concentrating will not be easy after all the binge eating and sitting around. Drink lots of water and take vitamins.

By Bae Ji-sook (baejisook@heraldcorp.com)