So we talked about signs of burnout, now let's talk about overcoming it, shall we 😏 (If you missed that blog, go check it out ... I get all nerdy as to what's actually happening in the body when these symptoms surface 🤓) Part of healing from burnout, it's nurturing the Parasympathetic Nervous System - the arm of the Automatic Nervous System that helps you relax and chill out. Naturally, if prolonged stress has kept you in the flight or fight response for too long (activation of the SNS), then it's time to balance these two systems back out! Recovering from burnout is NO FREAKING JOKE. It took me a solid 6 months of intentional #holistic action (mind, body + spiritual nourishment) to start functioning properly again. DISCLAIMER: The healing process is not a one-size fits all. **Be sure to consult your doc** TIPS TO ACTIVATE THE PARASYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM MINIMAL ALCOHOL + CAFFEINE: Alcohol and caffeine tax the adrenal glands whose main function is to help your body deal with stress. #AdrenalFatigue negatively affects cortisol production, causing debilitating mental & physical symptoms & depletion of key nutrients, like B-vitamins, essential for energy & brain function. SLEEP: Poor sleep impairs brain function & overall recovery. Getting at least 8 hours of quality sleep will optimize cognition, concentration, productivity and performance. LOW INTENSITY EXERCISE: Intense exercise is stress on the body and can activate the "flight or fight" response, releasing stress and catabolic hormones. Stick to yoga, walking or swimming MASSAGE: Gentle touch activates the Parasympathetic Nervous System to calm the body and slow your heart rate. MEDITATION: Slows your breathing, heart rate & blood pressure, and let's your body know everything is going to be ok! HOW TO KNOW YOUR NERVOUS (OR STRESS RESPONSE) SYSTEM IS BALANCED AGAIN: Track your HRV, heart rate variability. This nifty metric essentially tells you how well your body is dealing with stress. I wear the Whoop sleep & performance tracker every night for this! For all tips on healing burnout, download
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