Maybe it’s because it’s almost summer but we’re still experiencing mostly cold, gray days. Maybe it’s the extra daily input from emails and social networking. Maybe it’s the current economic times or the constant stresses of work. It may be all of these, but whatever the cause, more and more people are complaining about burn out.
Burn out can lead to depression and issues in every facet of life. So what do you do?
First, acknowledge that there’s a problem. Then do something about it. Regular exercise, taking a daily break from technology, getting enough sleep, and eating a balanced diet can help a lot. Ginkgo or lemon balm teas can be a lovely stress reducer, and sitting with a cup of hot tea at the end of the day can be wonderfully relaxing.
Replacing vitamins that are depleted during stress can help a lot too. Vitamins A, C, and E, the amazing antioxidants that they are, can be regained through foods high in these vitamins. Broccoli is a powerhouse, rich in all three. Spinach contains both A and E, red peppers A and C, and mangoes and kiwis C and E. Other tasty choices include sweet potatoes, carrots, kale, oatmeal, and apples for Vitamin A; kohlrabi and oranges for Vitamin C; and almonds, sunflower seeds, and tomatoes for Vitamin E. Focusing on foods that are good sources of magnesium are also beneficial – spinach, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, halibut, and black beans.
And never underestimate the power of friends. Sitting over food or drinks and decompressing should be a part of your weekly routine. Talking is a great tool.
By allowing yourself some rest, relaxation, fun, and good food, your recovery from burn out will hopefully be on the horizon.
Other sources of insight on burn out can be found here and here.
