FROM BURNOUT TO BRILLIANCE: MY JOURNEY OF HEALING AND HOPE

In 2011, everything came to a head. Chris suffered a career-ending concussion, and our family was navigating multiple health issues all at once. I was raising three young children—Jack, George, and Lilah—while trying to hold it all together behind the scenes. I was pushing myself past every limit, mentally and physically, until my body finally said enough. It was one of the most overwhelming seasons of my life.

Up until then, I prided myself on being strong, resilient, and capable of handling anything life threw my way. But this perfect storm exposed all the cracks. I wasn’t sleeping, my mind was stuck in a loop of anxiety and overthinking, and I had lost sight of how to take care of myself. Nutrition became an afterthought, and I relied on long cardio sessions to manage stress—only adding to my exhaustion.

Eventually, I hit a wall. My nervous system was fried, cortisol constantly surging, and I was stuck in survival mode. I knew something had to change—not just for me, but for my entire family.

Turning to Holistic Healing

That breaking point became the beginning of my breakthrough. I turned inward, returned to my wellness studies, and fully immersed myself in learning more about holistic health. I began exploring Eastern healing practices and integrative approaches that addressed not just the symptoms, but the root of burnout.

This is when breathwork and Transcendental Meditation became daily anchors for me. I now practice and guide others in these modalities, incorporating simple yet powerful tools like 4-7-8 and box breathing. These techniques helped calm my nervous system, rebuild my energy, and reconnect me to the grounded version of myself I had lost along the way.

That season taught me that true strength doesn’t come from powering through—it comes from learning how to pause, reset, and live from a place of alignment and presence. And that’s the energy I bring into everything I do now.

The Healing Journey

Feeling the sweet relief of tapping into my parasympathetic nervous system for the first time in a long while was the greatest gift I gave myself. These tools have served me incredibly well to this day. I want to share them with you because I wouldn't wish that dark time on my worst enemy.

Here are the holistic healing methods and tools that healed my burnout:

• Acupuncture: This ancient practice helped restore balance and reduce stress.

• Red Light Therapy: It rejuvenated my cells and boosted my energy.

• Daily Infrared Sauna Sessions: These sessions helped detoxify my body and relax my muscles.

• Journaling: Writing down my thoughts and feelings was cathartic and helped me process my emotions.

• Healthy Cooking: I found joy in cooking clean, healthy, protein-forward meals.

• Prioritizing Sleep: Ensuring I got adequate rest was crucial for recovery.

• Morning Sunlight Exposure: This helped regulate my circadian rhythm and improve my mood.

• Grounding: Walking barefoot on grass, soil, or sand connected me to the Earth and provided a calming effect.

• Legs Up the Wall: This yoga pose became a nightly ritual that helped me unwind.

• Being Present: Spending quality time with family and close friends, filled with laughter and connection, was healing.

• Self-Care: Dedicating time to myself each day helped me recharge.

This was not an overnight fix. It took at least nine months of consistency, discipline, setting strict boundaries, prioritizing education, trial and error, and much more. But I was DETERMINED to fix my broken self so I could be there for my loved ones who needed me most at this time. Remember, if you are not whole and healthy, you are no good to anyone or yourself!

Learning Valuable Lessons

This burnout journey taught me invaluable lessons and tools that keep me thriving. However, as life goes, I found myself inching back toward burnout again in 2018. This time, I recognized the signs early and had the tools, knowledge, and education to protect myself from winding back up in burnout mode.

In 2018, I was deeply immersed in growing Well Inspired Travels, handling the demanding tasks of being an entrepreneur, a wife, a mother of three, a daughter, a sister, and a friend. The constant pressure, endless deadlines, and pursuit of perfection took their toll on me, both mentally and physically. This was another wake-up call, a realization that I needed to change my path and prioritize my well-being. We can all slip back into burnout mode again and again if you don’t protect yourself.

Embracing Wellness as a Lifestyle

Embracing the wellness path wasn't just a choice; it became my salvation. It taught me the importance of balance, the value of health, and the power of mindfulness. Once again understanding the importance of wellness, not just as a concept but as a lifestyle. I share this hoping to inspire others to prioritize their well-being.

Fast forward to today, I’m proud to say that I run thriving wellness businesses, Well Inspired Travels, and my wellness consulting business. My journey from burnout to well-being has not only shaped my career but has also transformed my approach to life. Despite the demands of my work, my health, both physical and mental, remains my top priority.

Maintaining Balance

But how do I keep this balance? How do I ensure that amidst the hustle, I don't lose sight of what's truly important? I'll be sharing some of the practices that have helped me maintain this delicate balance. From daily routines and habit stacking that keep me grounded to the mindfulness practices that help me stay centered, I'll dive into the strategies that have made all the difference.

Here are some key practices that have helped me:

• Morning Rituals: Starting my day with a set routine helps set the tone for the rest of the day. I prioritize a healthy breakfast, sunlight exposure, and a brief meditation session.

• Physical Activity: Incorporating movement is crucial. Whether it's a Pilates session, a walk in nature, or a quick workout, staying active keeps my energy levels up and stress levels down.

• Mindfulness Practices: Daily meditation and breathwork exercises keep me grounded and centered. These practices help me manage stress and maintain mental clarity.

• Healthy Eating: Focusing on clean, protein-forward meals fuels my body and mind.

• Quality Sleep: Prioritizing sleep ensures I am well-rested and ready to take on the day.

• Connection: Spending time with family and friends, filled with laughter and meaningful conversations, nurtures my soul.

The Path Forward

Join me as I share the lessons I’ve learned, the challenges I’ve faced, and the practices that have helped me prioritize my well-being while running a successful business. Whether you’re struggling to find balance, facing burnout, or simply looking for ways to prioritize your health, I hope my journey inspires you to take that step toward a healthier, more balanced life.

Remember, it's not just about the destination; it's about the journey. And on this journey, your well-being is the most crucial part. So, let’s dive in, and I'll share how I've managed to keep my health and wellness at the forefront, despite the challenges.

Thank you for joining me today, and I can't wait to continue on this journey of wellness and balance together.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, overcoming burnout is not a one-time fix but an ongoing journey. It's about making conscious choices every day that prioritize your well-being. By sharing my story, I hope to shed light on the importance of self-care, balance, and mindfulness. No matter where you are in your journey, remember that taking small, consistent steps can lead to significant changes over time. Let's commit to this journey together, supporting each other along the way.

Thank you for reading, and I look forward to sharing more insights and stories with you in future blogs and in my weekly “Chill & Chats”. Stay well, stay balanced, and remember to prioritize yourself!

With love, warmth and wellness,

Lauren