Burnout: it is one condition that most of us hope to never encounter, yet many of us experience it with some regularity. Defined as long-term exhaustion and diminished interest in work, burnout often occurs as the result of chronic occupational stress - and, it's occurring more often than we’d like to believe.
One recent Gallup study found that 23 percent of surveyed employees said they felt burned out more often than not, and an additional 44 percent reported feeling burned out sometimes. Yet, as common as burnout may be, it can be difficult to overcome burnout, once it has taken hold of your life. Here are 4 good ways to shake burnout and enter a recovery process.
Meditate
Meditation provides a powerful way for you to set aside your thoughts for a few minutes of relaxation – and, hopefully, clarity. Simply sit in a quiet room for 20 minutes and focus on your breathing. Consider using essential oils to heighten the experience with aromatherapy, which can compound the effects of meditation by soothing your mind and giving you the space you need to rest and recover from burnout.
Write
Got a lot of pent-up emotions? Need to vent to someone, but don’t feel comfortable discussing your stressors? Try writing. Writing can help you release all of the emotions you’re experiencing as a result of burnout. Make a list of everything you’re burdened by. Can you connect the burden to the emotion? This will help you identify what in your life you should examine more closely.
Move
Physical activity is a natural stress reliever. In fact, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America claims that even five minutes of aerobic exercise can elevate and stabilize moods and decrease overall levels of tension and stress. Enjoy these great benefits for yourself by finding a physical activity that you enjoy – whether it’s completing an at-home fitness routine or dancing along to your favorite tunes!
Laugh
It’s been said that “laughter is the best medicine” - and we’d have to agree! Laughter is a natural stress reliever, and a good laugh leaves your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after. When you’re burdened by burnout, take a break and turn on your favorite comedic movie, stand-up routine, or YouTube channel. Enjoy the catharsis that comes with laughing and you’ll feel better because of it.
No matter your lifestyle, Oxford at Estonia Apartments in San Antonio, Texas goes out of our way to provide our residents with a unique selection of in-home activities and information that better your physical and mental health.