Back to Work Blues: Balancing the Autonomic Nervous System after Long Holidays

After relaxing during a long holiday, many Japanese employees experience the challenge of getting back to regular routines. This story discusses various strategies to rebalance the autonomic nervous system: the part of our bodies managing stress responses. It includes expert tips for coping with the sudden transition from relaxation to work, exploring methods of stress management, mental health support, and overall well-being.

In Japan, post-holiday fatigue is a well-discussed topic due to the country's intense work ethics. The Japanese population is highly aware of physical and mental health issues, with many people taking measures to ensure a smooth transition after holidays. Furthermore, the national health insurance scheme covers mental health services, making it easier for individuals to seek help if needed.

Unlike Japan, countries in the US and EU tend to have longer annual leave allocations and more flexible work environments. The pressures post-holiday may be less intense, as there are more opportunities for downtime throughout the year. However, stress and mental health are global issues, and many of the suggestions would be just as useful to readers in these regions.

Information for Your Country

For stress management strategies outside Japan, readers may refer to the Mayo Clinic's guide on stress management. Also, mental health services such as BetterHelp offer international support.