Burn Off Burnout: The Top 5
The feeling of impending doom when burnout creeps its way in is one you don’t wish upon anyone. The hole your mind dug is so deep that hope seems non-existent. Is there a way out of this feeling? How come my zest for life has dwindled all the way down to the bare minimum? There are many ways to help, and the good news is that YES! You can return to being yourself, zest and all.
The proper care that you handle yourself, provides an environment to thrive in, and believe it or not- to come back stronger than ever. It all begins with a little help from the following. Here are the top five favorite ways to ease burnout.
1. You are what you eat? In every way.
Raise your hand if you've heard it once or twice! Okay put it down because I know you raised it! Most of us will jump to playing a mind-movie of ourselves ten pounds heavier if we dare to take a bite of the perfectly moist cupcake topped with the delicious pink frosting your relative always brings to family gatherings. Although one (or two) Instagram worthy baked treat is good for the soul, creating a habit of enjoying it regularly can affect you physically. Of course we all knew that because, well- a huge and non-sarcastic (wink wink) thank you to all of our 90’s televisions for ingraining that in our brains from the time our moms fed us a bottle in front of soap operas! Reality is though, that it is affecting you physically in more ways than one. Did you know that cutting out sugar for just three days allows the body to crave natural, whole foods? Cravings for your usual splurge will decrease and your energy levels will skyrocket. Now what is the opposite of that? Allowing your daily craving at the coffee shop to be satisfied- has proven that one is in fact sluggish more than usual and the cravings may seem never ending. The cycle is a vicious one, but think about all the benefits from just THREE days! This is only number one and if you are feeling adventurous and up for the challenge, you’ll already have some energy to go for the next one! Let’s see what we got here…
2. I have a feeling you can guess No. 2
Exercise. WAIT, don’t click out of this! In a world where YouTube exists, all you need is 30 minutes in your living room. In the words of my fellow and trustworthy blonde, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t have burnout.” Okay so I changed that last part, however the marvelous Elle Woods would agree with me that happy people actually wouldn’t feel the weight of burnout as often! Dance, walk outside! Tae Bo (can we bring that back? I love it!), ride an indoor bike or get out in nature! Endorphins multiplied by a few days a week equals one happy YOU. Also, that energy we talked about earlier? You’re already feeling great, I can tell!
3. Sleep
Who doesn’t want a plump brain full of creativity with the clarity of a Tiffany & Co. ring? I can’t think of one person. Recommended is 7-9 hours of sleep. Try it out and see where your sweet spot is! Then do your best to accommodate it. Netflix will always be there, you don’t need to binge anything but some Z’s, trust me! Let’s see, now your brain isn’t feeling foggy, you’ve got energy for days and LOOK! You’re SMILING! Let’s keep going!
4. Be Mindful. For yourself!
I want you to try something. The next time you wash your hands I want you to feel it. How fast is the water going? Is the water warm or cool? Is the soap a sudsy one or more mild? How does it feel in your hands? This is being mindful. Meditating on the action taking place. Taking one moment and allowing your body to feel every bit of it. Some favorites are breathing exercises while lying down, savoring every single bite of your meal or a slow walk to soak in the weather and sounds. Try it! It’s a good addition to your happiness cocktail you’ve started already.
5. Treat Yo Self
If you pay attention there is a big debate on what the word “self-care” means. Some say it’s getting your hair or nails done. Others would argue that it’s much deeper than that and more important things like exercise and prayer are the real definition. The truth? This whole blog post is about self-care! This in particular is any simple activity that takes away your stress. Not what people suggest, or what your mom is telling you to do. It is that activity that makes you smile. What makes your day? Is it walking through a bookstore and purchasing a fresh book to crack open? Maybe going into a beauty store and trying out all their ‘tester’ products to find the perfect lip color! Getting your car washed and cleaned up for the week? I’m personally a sucker for getting my hair done and adding a pop of color once in a while! This will add the confetti you need for your cocktail of happiness we’ve begun.
6. A Bonus!
Alright alright, so I have one more. This is the cherry on top. I can’t help it! I want to help you. If you’re reading this, it probably means you are looking for answers to help cope with what you or a loved one is experiencing. You aren’t yourself and your loved ones see it and most importantly, you feel it. This list is a simple one full of wonderful suggestions that are doable, however from experience I know it’s easier said than done. If this list is overwhelming to try or appears impossible, it might be the right time to speak with a professional you can trust. Think of me as your friend in your pocket. You can do this, and I am here with answers to your unanswered questions and the calm to your storm happening internally. I know you don’t want a storm. I know you want simplicity and a day where you can easily take care of the tasks at hand. I’m here for you, friend!
Looking at brighter days ahead for you. I am ready to smooth out the wrinkles and bring you back to where you love to be. Take care.
