Are you feeling burned out?

Holidays are upon us, and it marks the end of another stressful year.  We are learning to live and navigate a flu season mixed with ever-present COVID-19 concerns on top of nagging inflation and worker shortages.  Many aspects of our lives may be adding undue stress on us compared to a few years ago, and those tensions can lead to health concerns and burnout.

Burnout has many signs, including excessive stress, mental or physical exhaustion, headaches/physical pain, interrupted sleep habits, and even lowered immunity…yay….  Remember that there are simple things we can do to center ourselves in these chaotic times.

1. Take a walk: Going on a simple walk, outside or on a treadmill, has loads of health benefits, especially if you are stressed.  Simple exercise like this can lower cortisol levels, improve mood, and help you sleep better at night.  Not to mention, a nice simple walk can help you clear your head.
2. Take a nap: Many of us feel that we don’t have time to nap, but we find the time to watch an hour of TV or play with our phones at every available moment.  Getting comfortable and laying your head down for 10-20 minutes can make an impact, so give it a try.
3. Meditate:  It has been said that meditation can help if you feel anxious.  Many people disregard this activity, but you don’t have to sit with your legs crossed with exotic music playing in the background.  I lie on my back with my legs resting vertically against the wall and slowly breathe in and out for 1-2 minutes.  Having your legs raised allows blood to circulate to your heart without fighting gravity, essentially giving your heart a break.  It is also very calming and relaxing.
4. Go back to basics:  I have known many people who get into a fog when taking care of themselves and do not follow the advice they tend to give others in their care.  Remember to set a bedtime for yourself.  Even if you are not tired…get into something comfortable, put your phone away, and pick up a book you’ve been meaning to read.  If you are not a fan of reading before bed, lay there and practice your deep breathing (deep breath in – hold for three seconds – deep breath out).  Practice saying “no” to people if you need to set better boundaries for yourself and actively remove items from your mental list that are not necessary.  Will the world stop turning if you don’t dust the house and someone finds out?  No.

As we finish 2022, let’s make time for ourselves, our loved ones, and our futures.  Let’s slow down and open up our schedules for spontaneity.  After all, we tend to have creative streaks after tasting boredom, so do not be afraid of shaking things up.  The more opportunities to refresh ourselves, the healthier we will be and the better we can take care of our loved ones.