Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Pride in Atlanta is always a whirlwind of excitement, from non-stop parties to long walks at festivals and dancing the nights away. But after days of celebration, your body (and mind) might be begging for some TLC. It’s important to take the time to recover and recoup so you can keep that Pride spirit alive without feeling burned out. Here are some helpful strategies to bounce back after all the fun.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
With all the dancing, walking, and maybe drinking, your body is likely craving hydration. Alcohol and physical activity can easily dehydrate you, which leads to sluggishness, headaches, and that overall post-party haze. Start by drinking plenty of water—electrolyte-rich drinks or coconut water can also help replenish what you’ve lost. Hydrating will speed up your recovery and help you feel more energized.
Quick tip: Carry a reusable water bottle with you in the days following Pride and sip throughout the day to get your energy back on track.
Rest Up (Seriously)
After all the fun, your body needs time to recover. Whether you spent hours dancing or just spent more time on your feet than usual, getting adequate rest is key. Sleep is when your body repairs itself, so prioritize getting a good night’s sleep, or even take naps to help rejuvenate. If you’re having trouble sleeping after the excitement, try winding down with a calming routine—think herbal tea, a warm bath, or some gentle stretching.
Quick tip: Turn off screens an hour before bed and create a calming environment with soft lighting and music to help you drift off.
Stretch and Move Gently
Pride can mean lots of walking, dancing, and standing, which can leave your muscles feeling sore or stiff. A gentle yoga session or some light stretching can help alleviate tension and soreness, especially in your legs and lower back. Even a slow walk in a park can help get your blood flowing and loosen up tight muscles. Keep your movements light to aid recovery without pushing yourself too hard.
Quick tip: Focus on stretching your calves, hamstrings, and lower back. You’ll feel the benefits quickly after all that dancing and walking.
Nourish Your Body
Let’s face it: after a weekend of celebration, your eating habits might not have been the healthiest. Maybe you skipped meals, grabbed quick snacks, or indulged in late-night treats. Now’s the time to nourish your body with wholesome foods that will help restore your energy and support recovery. Fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains will fuel your body and give you the nutrients you need to feel your best again.
Quick tip: Try making a hearty salad or smoothie with ingredients like spinach, berries, avocado, and nuts to refuel with vitamins and antioxidants.
Reconnect with Sexual Health
Pride can be a time of liberation, and sometimes that means more sexual activity. It’s important to take care of your sexual health as part of your overall post-Pride recovery. Check in with yourself and your partners, and consider getting tested for STIs, especially if you’ve been sexually active with new or multiple partners. Regular testing is a healthy habit and shows that you prioritize both your health and the well-being of the community.
Quick tip: Many LGBTQ+ health centers and organizations offer free or low-cost STI testing. Make it a regular part of your health routine, just like hydrating and eating well!
