Imagine this: you’ve just gotten home from a glorious getaway — think sandy beaches, poolside lounging, and laughter with your favourite people. Yet, instead of feeling refreshed, you’re surprisingly wiped out. Sound familiar? If you’re an active adult or a busy parent, you’ve probably experienced this post-trip slump, often dubbed the “vacation hangover.”

Travel is meant to recharge us, but it can sometimes leave us feeling more depleted than before. The thought of a brimming inbox or jumping straight back into chores can trigger stress or anxiety. The good news? You’re not alone, and there are effective ways to bounce back. With a few innovative strategies, you can recover from your vacation, avoid burnout, and dive into daily life with genuine energy. In this guide, you’ll find practical tips on beating jet lag, easing post-vacation anxiety, and getting your productivity (and mood) back on track.

Starting your day by checking your phone can significantly impact your mental well-being and productivity. Research shows that excessive screen time in the morning can disrupt your natural wake cycle and increase anxiety levels[1]. When you immediately reach for your phone, you expose yourself to potentially stressful information before your mind can fully awaken.