The holiday season in the salon industry often feels extreme—either nonstop busy or unexpectedly slow. In this episode of The Energized Hairdresser, Ashley Jo Gillen walks you through how to take on the holidays without burning yourself out, no matter which side of the spectrum you’re experiencing.
This episode is a grounded pep talk and practical coaching
session designed to help hairdressers manage their energy during the busiest time of the year. Ashley breaks down why burnout isn’t caused by working hard, but by skipping meals, abandoning boundaries, and pushing through exhaustion without support.
You’ll learn how to fuel your body properly, regulate your nervous system, protect your energy with boundaries, and reframe slower seasons as opportunities for growth instead of stress. This is about showing up for yourself behind the chair so you can finish the year energized, not depleted.
00:00 Navigating the Holiday Duality in the Salon Industry
02:27 How Burnout Shows Up During the Holidays
06:11 Fueling Your Body for Energy and Balance
12:03 Setting Boundaries to Protect Your Energy
16:04 Using Slow Seasons as Opportunities
17:15 Managing Your Nervous System
19:06 Setting Intentions for the New Year
salon industry, holiday burnout, hairstylist wellness, energy management, boundaries, nutrition for hairdressers, self-care, mindset, personal growth