Late summer / early fall has historically been one of the most challenging times of the year for me. My body starts to quietly whisper that it is time to slow down, to rest, and to turn inward. But there’s another (often louder) part of me that wants to start new projects, set new goals, buy new school supplies, color-code things, start new health routines, and keep up with all the social events. This time of year is often when the first signs of burnout appear for me. In the past, I have ignored the early signs and pushed through for a few weeks or even many months, but that saying has proven true for me: “If you don’t pick a time to rest, your body will pick it for you” (or something like that). I used to hit burnout at least once a year, if not more. I’m so grateful to write that it’s been quite a few years since I’ve experienced burnout. Maybe the difference was the forced solitude of the pandemic, maybe the experience of motherhood that gave me clarity around my priorities, maybe moving to the redwoods and slowing down our pace of life, maybe working on managing my perfectionism and learning how to set boundaries, maybe the privilege of employment and self-employment that allow me to manage my time in a way that works for my energy levels, maybe giving up alcohol, maybe anchoring in a supportive community, maybe finally internalizing all those years of studying yoga and ayurveda to actually start listening and responding to my body’s needs instead of pushing forward with the plan I had for her. Probably it was a combination of all of those things that made the difference. If burnout is familiar to you and you are desiring deep, nuanced support to heal your nervous system and change the complex patterns that lead to bouts of burnout, I would love to work with you in my one-on-one program.
p.s. I would love to practice yoga with you! Check out my free practice bundles HERE.
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