Protecting Sleep, and Recovery — Avoiding the Holiday Exhaustion Crash (Pillar 3)
Let’s be honest — December often destroys sleep.
Between:
Parties
Travel
Late-night wrapping
Sugar
Alcohol
Stress
Endless to-do lists
…your body ends up running on fumes.
But your sleep and recovery determine EVERYTHING about how you feel.
Here’s how to protect them:
1. Reduce Bright Light in the Evenings
Your brain needs darkness to produce melatonin.
Holiday evenings tend to be full of screens, bright lights, and stimulation.
Try switching to:
Lamps instead of overhead lights
Warm, dim light
Fewer screens after dinner (that includes your phone, friends!)
Calming environments
*This small shift alone smooths your transition into sleep.
2. Be Strategic With Alcohol
You don’t have to skip the champagne or holiday cocktails…However, alcohol is one of the biggest sleep disruptors — especially in combination with sugar. I have seen this for myself. I’m sure you have too.
I rarely drink anymore due to health reasons; however, if I’ve had a glass of wine at a special occasion meal – forget it. I’m done. My sleep is guaranteed to be messed up. And the data on my OURA Ring app confirms it.
Choose peace over pressure:
Drink earlier in the evening.
Alternate with water or electrolytes.
Don’t guzzle your drink. Enjoy is slowly.
Set a “holiday limit” that honors your energy.
*Better sleep makes every part of the season easier.
Rest truly Is Your Holiday Superpower!
When you sleep well, you:
Handle stress better
Crave less sugar
Feel more patient
Have more energy
Improve immunity
*Protecting your sleep is one of the highest forms of self-care during this season.