Burn Out

How do you deal with burn out? 

Things have changed so much for me recently. I am and always have been a chronic over-doer. My response to being tired physically has always been to push harder. My reaction to feeling overwhelmed emotionally has been to work harder, stronger and faster. It is next to impossible to feel things when I am maxed out. Well, that is until I crash. And over the past few years I have had some severe crashes. These messes are always blessings in disguise. I believe it is the universe doing for me what I cannot or will not do for myself. Take for example, I was recently diagnosed with Celiac Disease. For those who don't know, Celiac Disease is a disease that causes allergic reactions to gluten, wheat, and oats. I had been plowing through the symptoms of this disease, including severe joint pain, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal distress, and I had NO idea. The diagnosis has been a blessing in disguise. Sure, it is challenging not to eat wheat, oats and gluten, but I now know that this simple diet change has pretty much given me a new and improved physical body! 

I am also 8 months pregnant. I'm due in January. I am still working my day job, however, I recently phased out all of the yoga classes that I teach. Please understand, I love teaching yoga. And I already miss my wonderful students. However, I began to dread teaching because I could not do what I wanted to do physically. I mean, this is VERY understandable. I know this. But, it burned me out. I thought that not teaching would enable me to take more classes. Well, maybe I need more than one weeks time to feel this difference. But today I don't want to do yoga. I don't want to ride my bike (on the spinner of course.) I don't want to run. And the pool? Ha! I haven't been there. I am walking daily, but I truly wouldn't be walking if it weren't for the longing eyes of my German Shepard.

I have gotten jealous of my husband, friends, and children for the activities that they can do and I can't. Yes, sad but true. These thoughts quickly shift though. I have a person inside of me. I have a little girl that will be here with me in 9 weeks. Not everyone gets to experience this. And this will be my last pregnancy and I want to hold on to it. It is special. 

My attitude on burn out has changed over the years. I have learned so much from my triathlons, adventure races, and yoga. I am going to go with it now. I am going to do what I want to do. I am going to eat what I want to eat... and LOVE it. And when this baby girl is born, we will run together... I look forward to pushing her in the jogging stroller. I don't think we were put on this earth to be miserable. We are supposed to be happy. A suggestion for you.... make a gratitude list. Remember what brings you joy. And if it doesn't bring you joy- don't do it. See what happens and let me know!

In the meantime, I am craving fruit smoothies and caramel apples. I'm going to enjoy them, and take the dog for the extra long walk today.
Namaste!
Meghan