How to Bounce Back After a New Year’s Eve Party Like a Champ

Ah, New Year’s Eve. The glitter, the countdown, the "just one more drink" logic that seemed like a great idea at 11:59 PM but not so much when you wake up the next day. If you’re reading this with a pounding head and a deep yearning to rewind to yesterday, don’t worry — we’ve got you. Here’s your ultimate guide to curing that NYE hangover and starting the year on a slightly better note.

Here's our foolproof, never-fail, 100% effective method to dodge a hangover: don’t drink. But if you clicked on this article, that’s obviously not the plan.

Hydrate Like Your Life Depends on It (Because It Kind of Does)

Alcohol is a sneaky thief that steals all the water from your body, leaving you as dry as January’s bank account. Start by chugging water the moment you wake up. Bonus points if you add some electrolytes. Sports drinks, coconut water, or a fancy electrolyte tablet in your water bottle will do wonders to replenish what you lost to champagne and questionable cocktails.

Eat a Recovery Breakfast (or Brunch)

Your body’s sugar levels are probably all over the place, so fuel up with something hearty but not overwhelming. Think eggs (great for liver support), avocado toast (hello, healthy fats), and maybe a banana for that potassium hit. If you’re feeling brave, a greasy breakfast sandwich from a local diner of cafe can also work wonders — it’s not scientific, but it’s tradition.

Here’s a few local hot spots we’d recommend:

• The Vic Social, Picton

• Eggsquis, Belleville

• Momma’s Diner, Trenton

Caffeinate Strategically

A cup of coffee can help clear the fog, but don’t overdo it. Too much caffeine can dehydrate you further, and that’s the opposite of what you need right now. Stick to one cup and sip it slowly while contemplating your life choices.

Replenish with Supplements

If you’ve got them handy, now’s the time to reach for some B-complex vitamins and magnesium. These can help combat the fatigue and muscle cramps that often follow a night of overindulgence. And if you’re truly in the trenches, a little activated charcoal can help absorb leftover toxins.

Treat Yourself to a Hair of the Dog (Maybe)

The "hair of the dog" strategy — drinking a little more alcohol the next day — isn’t exactly doctor-recommended, but some people swear by it. If you’re tempted, keep it light: a mimosa, a Bloody Mary, or a shandy might do the trick. Just don’t overdo it or you’ll end up in a repeat cycle.

Take a Gentle Stroll (or Just Go Outside)

Fresh air can be magical when you’re feeling rough. If you’re up for it, take a light walk to get your blood flowing and clear your head. Bonus: walking also gives you the perfect excuse to grab your favorite hangover takeout. Pizza Zone, anyone?

Indulge in a Hangover Bath

Run a warm bath with Epsom salts to relax your muscles and detox through your skin. Add a few drops of essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus to help with nausea and headaches. Light a candle, throw on some relaxing tunes, and turn this into the spa moment you deserve.

Netflix and Nap

Listen, today is not the day to conquer your resolutions. Give yourself permission to lounge, binge your favorite show, and sneak in a nap. Your body’s working hard to recover, and rest is one of the best things you can do to help it along.

Reflect and Regroup

Once you’re feeling semi-human, take a moment to reflect on the night before. What was the highlight? Any lessons learned (like maybe alternating cocktails with water)? Jot it down, laugh about it, and move on. It’s a new year, and you’ve got plenty of time to shine.

Plan Your Next Move

When you’re finally feeling like yourself again, consider meal-prepping or setting out your work clothes for the week. Doing one productive thing can help you feel like you’ve redeemed the day, even if you spent most of it on the couch with an ice pack on your forehead.

Hangovers are temporary, but the memories of NYE are forever (even if they’re a little fuzzy). Take care of yourself, rehydrate, and start the year on a kinder note — even if that kindness is mostly directed toward your future self. Cheers to recovery!