Are you experiencing holiday brain fog? Expert shares tips to combat it

Beat holiday brain fog with stress management techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and meditation, while limiting alcohol and sugar intake.

By: Lifestyle Desk

New Delhi | Updated: January 4, 2025 04:05 PM IST

3 min read

Here's what can help (Source: Freepik)

Holidays are generally a time for fun and relaxation, but they can sometimes bring unexpected challenges. Scattered attention spans, sleepless nights and unexplained bouts of stress and anxiety can bog you down. Wondering what is going on? You could be experiencing holiday brain fog.

According to Dr Parth Nagda, consultant psychiatrist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Navi Mumbai, explained that holiday brain fog is a temporary state that leaves someone dull, sluggish, forgetful and causes difficulty in focusing at tasks.

The doctor pointed out a variety of factors holiday brain fog can stem from. Sleep disruptions caused by irregular schedules, late nights, or early mornings can disturb your natural internal clock, leading to slowed cognitive functions. Stress and anxiety from planning events, shopping, and attending social gatherings can significantly reduce concentration levels. Changes in diet, such as consuming sugary foods and alcoholic beverages, can drain your energy and impair focus. Social overload from excessive interactions may leave you feeling mentally exhausted, while digital overwhelm—juggling social media and real-life connections—adds further pressure to your mental state.

Stress and anxiety from planning events, shopping, and attending social gatherings can significantly reduce concentration levels. (Source: Freepik)

What can you do to combat this issue?

Dr Nagda suggested the following solutions to help you get back on track:

Prioritise sleep: Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night.
Practice stress management: Use relaxation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and meditation.
Limit alcohol and sugar: Reducing consumption of these can help prevent energy dips and mood swings.
Take short breaks: Regularly recharge by setting aside time for yourself.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to maintain optimal hydration.

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Exercise regularly: Engage in physical activities such as jogging, brisk walking, or yoga, even if you can’t hit the gym.
Reduce screen time: Consider a digital detox or take breaks from social media to avoid overload.
Time management: Create to-do lists and prioritise tasks to reduce stress and stay organised.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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