Experts from Saratov Medical University told how to get back to work after the holidays
7 January 2026
Yulia Barylnik, Head of the Department of Psychiatry, Narcology, Psychotherapy and Clinical Psychology at the Razumovsky State Medical University, Honored Doctor of the Russian Federation, and Anastasia Shchelchkova, an assistant at the department, shared recommendations on how to go to work after the New Year holidays without stress.
According to them, the key to a stress—free return is a smooth transition, not a sudden jerk. It is best to start preparing a couple of days before going to work: gently return to your daily routine, going to bed and getting up closer to the usual time — this will help the body to rebuild without unnecessary stress.
"Also try to reduce alcohol and heavy food consumption during the last holidays in order to allow the nervous system and metabolism to return to normal and restore internal resources. Make the most of your remaining time by devoting it to quiet family traditions, such as watching good movies together, playing board games, or just having heartfelt conversations over tea. A calm atmosphere and the support of your loved ones will give you the necessary strength and mental balance for a smooth return to the working rhythm.",- Julia Barylnik recommends.
Experts advise devoting the last day of the holidays to quiet household chores and rest. This will help you switch over and accumulate a charge of positive emotions.
According to Anastasia Shchelchkova, on the first working day it is better to start with a moderate workload and be self-indulgent. You should start not by parsing hundreds of emails, but by making a simple plan for the week.
"Remember that you do not need to demand maximum efficiency from yourself from the first day — give yourself 2-3 days to naturally get into the rhythm, maintaining a balance between work and personal time",- the expert noted.
New Year's holidays are a great opportunity to reboot, restore resources and inspire new achievements. The main thing is to listen to your body, properly distribute your strength and enjoy your vacation.
According to them, the key to a stress—free return is a smooth transition, not a sudden jerk. It is best to start preparing a couple of days before going to work: gently return to your daily routine, going to bed and getting up closer to the usual time — this will help the body to rebuild without unnecessary stress.
"Also try to reduce alcohol and heavy food consumption during the last holidays in order to allow the nervous system and metabolism to return to normal and restore internal resources. Make the most of your remaining time by devoting it to quiet family traditions, such as watching good movies together, playing board games, or just having heartfelt conversations over tea. A calm atmosphere and the support of your loved ones will give you the necessary strength and mental balance for a smooth return to the working rhythm.",- Julia Barylnik recommends.
Experts advise devoting the last day of the holidays to quiet household chores and rest. This will help you switch over and accumulate a charge of positive emotions.
According to Anastasia Shchelchkova, on the first working day it is better to start with a moderate workload and be self-indulgent. You should start not by parsing hundreds of emails, but by making a simple plan for the week.
"Remember that you do not need to demand maximum efficiency from yourself from the first day — give yourself 2-3 days to naturally get into the rhythm, maintaining a balance between work and personal time",- the expert noted.
New Year's holidays are a great opportunity to reboot, restore resources and inspire new achievements. The main thing is to listen to your body, properly distribute your strength and enjoy your vacation.
