Have we forgotten that we are not machines?….
Have We Forgotten That We Are Not Machines?
We live in a world of constant stimulation. Phones. Emails. Notifications.
Noise. Responsibilities. The endless list of things that need doing.
Many women are carrying careers, relationships, households, children, ageing parents and communities on their shoulders. And if you're also navigating peri-menopause or menopause, it can sometimes feel like the perfect storm.
No wonder so many women are exhausted. No wonder so many of us feel disconnected from ourselves. Burnout is not weakness.
It is often the body's whisper that says:
"Something needs to change."
Signs You May Be Heading Towards Burnout.
Perhaps you'll recognise some of these:
Feeling not good enough or experiencing imposter syndrome.
Wanting to withdraw and disconnect from others.
Losing interest in things that once inspired you.
Waking exhausted, even after sleep.
Feeling heavy, flat and unmotivated.
Procrastination and overwhelm cycles.
Irritability, frustration and emotional outbursts.
Self-care and movement slipping away.
For me personally, one of my earliest signs is self-doubt.
I begin questioning myself. I lose perspective. That is usually my cue that I need to pause and reset. Because burnout rarely happens overnight.
It whispers long before it screams.
The Summer Solstice marks the longest day of the year. The fullest expression of light. Nature is abundant. Radiant. Alive.
Yet even the sun does not remain at its peak forever.
Following the Solstice, the light slowly begins its journey inward once more. Nature understands something we often forget. Everything moves in cycles. Expansion requires rest. Growth requires nourishment.
Fire requires tending.
The Sacred Woman knows this. She understands that she can shine brightly without burning herself out. She honours her energy. She respects her seasons. She knows when to pause.
Ten Ways to Soothe the Fire…
Walk gently in nature every day.
Be kind to yourself. Try repeating: I am doing my best.
Reduce stimulation and create moments of quiet.
Prioritise rest and relaxation.
Create a gentle Yin or Restorative Yoga practice.
Dance, play and remember joy.
Journal your thoughts and feelings.
Create a nourishing bedtime ritual.
Spend time with women who understand and uplift you.
Breathe slowly and consciously.
Try this simple nervous system practice:
Inhale for 4. Exhale for 6. Softly. Slowly.
For a few minutes.
Sometimes the simplest practices are the most powerful.
Journal Reflections.
As we move through this Waxing Moon and approach the Solstice, perhaps ask yourself:
Where am I heading towards burnout?
What are my earliest warning signs?
Where am I pushing instead of allowing?
What genuinely nourishes me?
What does my nervous system need right now?
What would it look like to honour my energy this summer?
How can I shine brightly without burning myself out?
This Week's Practice…
In this week's video, we explore the rising fire of Pitta season, recognising the signs of burnout and creating a more nourishing rhythm for ourselves.
Together we'll explore practical tools to support our nervous system and protect our precious energy.
“How are you caring for the precious life that has been entrusted to you?”
With all my love Andrea xx