Recharge and Refresh: The Importance of Recovery During the Holidays
The holiday season is a magical time filled with celebrations, family gatherings, and traditions. But let’s face it: the flurry of activity can also bring stress, leaving many of us feeling more frazzled than festive. Between juggling work deadlines, gift shopping, and social commitments, it’s easy to put self-care on the back burner. According to a recent poll by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), one quarter of Americans are experiencing more holiday related stress this year than they did in 2023.
Recovery is essential during the holiday season—not only to manage stress but also to recharge your mind and body so you can enjoy all the season has to offer
Recovery practices—like massage, yoga, and mindfulness exercises—help to:
- Reduce muscle tension and physical fatigue
- Lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone
- Improve sleep quality, so you wake up feeling refreshed
- Enhance mental clarity, allowing you to be present during the holiday season
At The St. James, we’re dedicated to helping you perform at your best, even during the busiest time of the year. Here’s how incorporating recovery into your routine can make a difference, along with some of the amenities and services we offer to support your well-being.
Courted Recovery at The St. James
The world-class amenities and services offered at Courted Spa and Recovery Lounge in Springfield, VA, and the Courted Recovery Suite in Bethesda, MD, are designed to help you recover, relax, and rejuvenate. Here are just a few ways you can integrate recovery into your holiday routine:
Cold Plunge Therapy
Boost your circulation, reduce inflammation, and leave your body feeling refreshed. Cold plunge therapy is an excellent way to relieve muscle soreness and reset after a workout—or a day of running holiday errands.
Massage Therapy
Nothing melts away stress like a professional massage. Whether you choose aromatherapy, tension relief, or sports massage, our expert therapists will help you release tension and promote relaxation.
Infrared Treatments
Experience the soothing warmth of infrared therapy to reduce stress and promote overall well-being. Infrared treatments help detoxify the body, improve circulation, and relieve muscle tension, making them an excellent choice for managing holiday stress. Whether you’re recovering from physical exertion or seeking a moment to unwind, infrared therapy supports both mental and physical rejuvenation.
Group Classes to Restore Your Balance
The St. James Performance Club offers unique group classes to complement your training, supporting mental and physical recovery:
Power Nap (Nidra Yoga)
This guided meditation class helps you achieve deep relaxation and mental clarity in just 30 minutes. Think of it as the ultimate reset for a busy day.
Sound Bath Therapy
Let the soothing vibrations of sound waves wash over you, easing tension and bringing you into a state of profound calm. A sound bath is a perfect escape from the holiday hustle and bustle.
Restorative Yoga
Gently stretch and unwind in this slower-paced yoga class designed to restore balance to your body and mind.
Breathwork and Meditation Classes
Reconnect with your breath to reduce stress, improve focus, and recharge your energy. These classes provide the tools you need to stay calm and centered no matter how busy your schedule gets.
Make Time for You
The holidays should be about joy—not overwhelm. By prioritizing recovery, you can approach the season with energy, mindfulness, and a greater sense of well-being. Whether it’s a quick cold plunge, a restorative yoga session, or a relaxing massage, The St. James has everything you need to feel your best.
This holiday season, give yourself the gift of recovery. You deserve it.
Ready to experience the benefits for yourself? Explore our recovery services and group classes today and make self-care a part of your holiday tradition.