The In-Between Reset: How to Eat, Move, and Reset Between Christmas and New Year’s

BY: ANDRES CHAPARRO

The In-Between Reset: How to Eat, Move, and Reset Between Christmas and New Year’s

The days between Christmas and New Year’s are a strange little window.

The big celebrations are over, leftovers are everywhere, routines are off, and suddenly there’s pressure to “fix” things before January hits.

Let me say this clearly: you don’t need to start over.

One holiday—or even a few days of indulgence—doesn’t erase your progress. This in-between week isn’t about restriction, detoxes, or punishment. It’s about getting back to basics and setting yourself up for a smoother, more successful New Year.

Focus on Balance, Not Perfection

This is not the time for extreme rules. Your body doesn’t need a cleanse—it needs consistency. Aim for real meals that include protein, vegetables, smart carbohydrates, and healthy fats. When you eat regularly and with intention, energy levels stabilize and cravings naturally calm down.

Three Habits That Matter Most Right Now

Before you think about goals or resolutions, lock in these simple habits:

  1. Drink water before coffee
  2. Eat protein at your first meal
  3. Move your body for 10–20 minutes a day

These habits aren’t flashy, but they work. They support digestion, energy, and mental clarity—making January feel far less overwhelming.

Why January Often Fails

Most January plans fail because they start from exhaustion. People jump from holiday chaos straight into restriction and intensity. If you want January to work, start slowing things down now. Regular meals, better hydration, and small moments of movement create momentum that lasts.

What Your Body Is Actually Asking For

After weeks of late nights, sugar, salt, and stress, your body wants support—not punishment. Think soups, roasted vegetables, eggs, quinoa, smoothies, and lean proteins. Simple, nourishing food goes a long way this week.

The Quiet Reset

The last few days of the year don’t need big goals. They need clarity. Clear out the fridge, plan a basic grocery list, and choose one habit you want to protect in January. Momentum doesn’t come from doing everything—it comes from doing the right things consistently.

The takeaway:

The week between Christmas and New Year’s isn’t about starting over. It’s about resetting with intention. Eat food that makes you feel good, hydrate well, move a little, and ease yourself into routines that support your long-term goals.

January will thank you.