Press Pause: Why Stepping Out of Routine at Christmas Can Be a Good Thing
The Christmas break is often seen as a time to indulge, unwind and step away from structure — but what really happens when we fall out of our routine over Christmas? While it’s easy to feel guilty about slowing down or skipping your workouts, pressing pause can actually be one of the healthiest things you do. From emotional resets to natural movement and nervous system repair, the festive season offers a powerful opportunity to rest, reflect and reconnect before the year ahead.
1. You slow down and that’s a good thing
Letting go of your usual structure gives your mind and body space to exhale. After a full year of responsibilities, deadlines and emotional load, switching off and staying in your pyjamas until lunchtime can be one of the most regulating things you do. Stillness is part of the cycle too.
Tip: Let rest be restorative, not something to feel guilty about. You don’t need to earn your break.
2. Your energy and emotions may feel mixed
The festive season can bring joy, connection and nostalgia but also pressure, grief and sensory overload. Social media can amplify it all, making it look like everyone else is having a perfect time or spending lots of money. It’s easy to feel like you’re not doing enough or not feeling the right things.
Tip: You don’t have to say yes to everything. Protect your energy, honour your budget, and make space for how you really feel. You’re allowed to do less if it supports your well-being.
3. Your sleep and rhythm can go off track
Rich food, late nights and extra screen time can knock your nervous system and leave you feeling foggy, sluggish or overstimulated. The shift in routine can feel nice in the moment but it can take a toll if we don’t come back to ourselves gently.
Tip: You don’t have to wait until your first day back at work to recalibrate. Begin reintroducing slow, grounding rituals that support your energy and sleep a few days early. Even something simple like a walk, warm food, or reading before bed can help you reset.
4. You might move in more natural ways
Even if your formal workouts stop, you’re likely moving in ways that feel more intuitive. Cooking, tidying, walking to see friends, playing with kids or even dancing around the kitchen. These unstructured movements still support your mood, circulation and nervous system.
Tip: Notice what feels good and energising. Let this guide how you move your body in the New Year rather than jumping back into something that feels forced.
5. The pressure to start fresh can feel heavy
January arrives with a lot of “new year, new you” energy. But it’s still winter, which is a time of hibernation and inner reflection. You don’t have to jump into productivity just because the calendar flipped. Goals don’t land when we’re pushing. They land when we’re present and ready.
Tip: Set gentle intentions rather than rigid resolutions. Start listening to your body before you start planning your year. Reconnection will take you further than reinvention.
Written by Jo Irving
Jo Irving is a Mindset & Success Coach, meditation teacher, and business mentor, helping entrepreneurs, salon professionals, and leaders create aligned success without burnout. With 25+ years as a business owner, she blends science-backed strategies with soulful practices to support personal and professional transformation.