event exhaustion - the event hangover

event exhaustion - the event hangover

The Event Hangover and How to Recover


Months of meticulous planning, countless late nights, and endless cups of coffee have finally paid off – the big event is over. But now that it's all said and done, you're left with an overwhelming feeling of exhaustion. It's like a hangover, but without the wild party that led up to it. In this blog, we'll explore the phenomenon of event exhaustion, share some tips on how to relax after a massive undertaking and provide insights on how to cope with work-related fatigue.

As a florist or event planner, you're no stranger to the intense pressure and long hours that come with organizing large-scale events. You've poured your heart and soul into ensuring every detail is perfect, but now that it's over, you may find yourself struggling to unwind and recharge. This post-event slump is completely normal – in fact, it's something many professionals in the industry experience.

So how do you bounce back from event exhaustion? As an event florist of 35 years as well as a therapist I have spent lots of time thinking about this.  I believe that the key is finding ways to decompress and refocus your energy on self-care. Here are some tips on how to relax after an exhausting event:


  1. Give yourself time to rest: Sleep is essential for recovery – both physically and mentally. Make sure you set aside time for some well-deserved rest. This may mean taking a day or two off work to catch up on sleep and allow your body and mind to recuperate.

 

2. Engage in relaxing activities: Find ways to unwind that work for you, whether it's reading a book, going for a walk, meditating, or taking a long bath. The goal is to give your mind a break and help relieve stress.

 

3. Reflect on the event: Take some time to think about the event's successes and areas for improvement. This can help put things into perspective and give you a sense of accomplishment while also providing valuable insights for future events.


4. Connect with friends and family: Reach out to your loved ones for support and share your experiences with them. They can provide encouragement, empathy, and sometimes even a fresh perspective on things.

 

5. Prioritize self-care: It's important not to neglect your physical, emotional, and mental well-being during this time. Focus on eating well, staying hydrated, exercising, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

 

Relaxation exercises can be beneficial for reducing stress, promoting a sense of calm, and improving overall well-being. Here are some relaxation exercises you can try:

  1. Deep Breathing:

    • Find a comfortable position, either sitting or lying down.
    • Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to expand.
    • Exhale slowly through your mouth, focusing on fully emptying your lungs.
    • Repeat for several breath cycles.

  2. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR):

    • Start by tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups, progressing from your toes to your head.
    • Tense each muscle group for about 5 seconds and then release the tension, focusing on the feeling of relaxation.

  3. Guided Imagery:

    • Close your eyes and imagine a peaceful scene, such as a beach, forest, or meadow.
    • Engage your senses by visualizing the details, sounds, and smells of this calming place.

  4. Mindfulness Meditation:

    • Find a quiet space to sit comfortably.
    • Focus your attention on your breath or a specific point of focus.
    • When your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breath or chosen focal point.

  5. Body Scan Meditation:

    • Lie down and bring your attention to different parts of your body, starting from your toes and moving up to your head.
    • Notice any sensations, tension, or relaxation in each area.

  6. Autogenic Training:

    • Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
    • Repeat a series of phrases silently, focusing on promoting warmth and heaviness in different parts of your body.

  7. Visualization:

    • Envision a place or scenario that brings you comfort and relaxation.
    • Imagine the details and immerse yourself in the positive feelings associated with this mental image.

  8. Breath Counting:

    • Inhale deeply through your nose, then exhale completely.
    • Count each breath, starting from one and going up to a specific number.
    • If your mind wanders, gently return your focus to the breath and continue counting.

  9. Square Breathing (Box Breathing):

    • Inhale slowly for a count of four.
    • Hold your breath for a count of four.
    • Exhale slowly for a count of four.
    • Pause for a count of four before inhaling again.
    • Repeat the cycle.

  10. Listening to Calming Music:

    • Choose instrumental or calming music.
    • Close your eyes and focus on the music, allowing it to guide your thoughts and emotions.

Remember, the key to relaxation exercises is consistency and finding what works best for you. Experiment with different techniques and incorporate them into your routine for optimal stress reduction and relaxation

In conclusion, event exhaustion is a common occurrence in the world of florists and event planners. Learning how to relax after an exhausting event is crucial for maintaining your well-being and ensuring that you're ready to tackle the next big project with renewed energy and enthusiasm. By following these tips and making self-care a priority, you'll be better equipped to cope with work-related fatigue and bounce back from the event hangover.

Susan Davis 


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