Five weeks of late games, public viewing, excitement and little sleep - major soccer tournaments throw many fans out of their usual rhythm. But when the last game is over, some experience not only an emotional low, but also a real physical hangover. Sleep deprivation, irregular meals, alcohol and less exercise can leave their mark. With a few simple measures, the body can get back to normal mode.
Why a feeling of emptiness can arise after the World Cup
Major sporting events create fixed structures over weeks. Many people have a reason to meet up with friends regularly, follow the news or exchange ideas with other fans. These shared experiences activate the reward system in the brain: anticipation, excitement and success create positive feelings.
If this stimulus suddenly disappears, everyday life can feel surprisingly boring in comparison. Similar to after a vacation, a concert or a big celebration, some people need time to get used to normalcy again.
Stabilize your sleep rhythm again
Late kickoff times can throw off your internal clock. Anyone who stays up later for weeks but still has to get up early the next morning quickly accumulates a sleep deficit. This can't always be compensated for with a single long sleep-in day.
It's more helpful to gradually normalize your sleep rhythm: get up at about the same time every day, get as much daylight as possible in the morning, and reintroduce fixed rest periods in the evening. Exercise during the day can also help you get back into a stable rhythm faster.
Leave alcohol and snacks behind
Whether it's beer during the game, chips on the couch or greasy food after a long night: during a tournament, many fans consume more calories and less balanced meals than usual. This isn't a problem for a limited time - but long-term, the combination of alcohol, lots of salt, sugar and little sleep can strain the body.
After the tournament, there's no need for a radical detox cure. The body has its own detoxification systems, especially the liver and kidneys. It makes more sense to return to a balanced diet: lots of vegetables, fruit, whole grain products and sufficient protein. Adequate fluids also help bring the body back into balance.
Create new highlights
This feeling of emptiness after a special event is not unusual. Psychologists often speak of the so-called post-event blues. New small goals and activities can help: a meeting with friends, a new sports project or an outing provide new positive experiences.
The social aspect in particular plays an important role. Those who experienced the World Cup mainly in community often miss not only the games after it ends, but also the togetherness.
The World Cup hangover will pass
A low after a major event is normally no cause for concern. The body and psyche simply need time to readjust. Those who integrate sleep, exercise, social contacts and small new goals into everyday life usually quickly find their way back to a normal rhythm.
