Laura Loesch

Finished reading: Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski PhD & Amelia Nagoski DMA 📚

I’ve been feeling emotionally exhausted lately so this topic was relevant. Two key takeaways were: (1) differentiate between dealing with the stressor and dealing with the stress. Oftentimes, we deal with the stressor but not the physical effects of stress which are driven by our fight-or-flight instincts. After we get through a high stakes meeting (stressor), the stress doesn’t fully dissipate on its own. Movement is the best way to release stress. (2) 10 hours of rest is critical for recovery and balance. This is not limited to sleep but includes waking rest time as well. The authors recommend:

• 8 hours of sleep
• 30 minutes of conversation
• 30 minutes of physical activity
• 30 minutes to pay attention to food (cooking or eating)
• 30 minute “wildcard” based on your personal needs

I have been making an effort to carve out time for waking rest - no screens, no podcasts, no books. I still feel odd sense of shame and discomfort with saying no to being constantly either busy or entertained. Jenny Odell How to Do Nothing is another good read on this topic.