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BREAKING THE BURNOUT CYCLE: STRATEGIES FOR LASTING WELLNESS

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In our previous articles, we’ve delved into the pressures that lead to burnout, explored its symptoms, and examined how it specifically impacts women, especially the Gen X cohort.

In this final installment, we’ll focus on actionable strategies to avoid burnout and steps to recover if you’re already experiencing it. This comprehensive guide aims to empower you with the tools to reclaim your well-being and thrive.

Preventing Burnout: Proactive Wellness Strategies

1. Prioritize Self-Care

Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Incorporate daily practices that nurture your physical, mental, and emotional health. This can include activities like:

  • Exercise: Regular physical activity, whether it’s yoga, walking, or swimming, can significantly reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.
  • Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you unwind and prepare for restful sleep.
  • Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar, which can lead to energy crashes and mood swings.

2. Set Boundaries

Setting healthy boundaries is crucial to avoid burnout. This involves:

  • Work-Life Balance: Define clear boundaries between work and personal time. For example, avoid checking work emails after hours and take regular breaks during the day.
  • Saying No: It’s okay to decline additional responsibilities that you cannot manage. Overcommitting is a fast track to burnout.
  • Personal Space: Ensure you have time and space for yourself, free from the demands of work and family.

3. Foster Social Connections

Strong social connections can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. Make time to connect with friends, family, and colleagues. Joining groups or clubs that align with your interests, whether it’s a book club, a fitness class, or a volunteer organization.

4. Manage Stress

Effective stress management techniques are essential for preventing burnout. Consider the following practices:

  • Mindfulness and Meditation: Regular mindfulness practice can help you stay present and reduce anxiety. Apps like Headspace or Calm can guide you through meditation sessions.
  • Hobbies: Engage in activities that you enjoy and that help you relax. This could be anything from gardening to painting to playing a musical instrument.
  • Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to seek help from a therapist or counselor if you’re struggling to manage stress on your own.

Recovering from Burnout: Steps to Rebuild Your Energy

1. Recognize and Accept

The first step in overcoming burnout is acknowledging it. Many women in midlife feel pressure to “power through” fatigue and stress, but this only exacerbates the problem. Accept that you are experiencing burnout and that it’s okay to take a step back.

2. Rest and Recharge

Rest is critical to recovery. Take time off work if possible, or at least reduce your workload. Use this time to:

  • Sleep: Prioritize getting enough rest. Aim to sleep more if you’re feeling particularly exhausted.
  • Disconnect: Limit your use of technology, especially work-related devices. Allow yourself to unplug and disconnect from constant demands.

3. Reevaluate Priorities

Burnout often signals a need for change. Reflect on your current lifestyle and responsibilities:

  • Assess Workload: Identify tasks that are draining your energy. Delegate or eliminate unnecessary obligations.
  • Life Goals: Reevaluate your long-term goals and align your daily activities to support these aspirations. This might involve career changes, pursuing new hobbies, or simplifying your lifestyle.

4. Seek Support

You don’t have to navigate burnout alone. Reach out to others for support:

  • Talk to Your Employer: Discuss your situation with your manager or HR department. They may offer flexible work arrangements or reduced hours.
  • Lean on Loved Ones: Share your feelings with family and friends. Their support can provide emotional relief and practical help.
  • Professional Guidance: Consider working with a coach or therapist to develop a personalized recovery plan.

5. Implement Long-Term Changes

Recovery from burnout is not just about immediate relief; it’s about making sustainable changes to prevent recurrence. Integrate long-term strategies such as:

  • Regular Self-Care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine.
  • Continuous Learning: Stay informed about burnout prevention and recovery techniques. Resources like Laylo Yoga & Wellness’ Radical Wellness guide offer valuable insights and support.
  • Mindful Living: Cultivate mindfulness in everyday activities to maintain a balanced perspective and reduce stress.

Wellness for the Future

Burnout is a significant challenge, but it can be managed and overcome with the right strategies.

By prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, fostering social connections, and managing stress effectively, you can prevent burnout from taking hold.

If you are already experiencing burnout, recognize it, take time to rest and recharge, reevaluate your priorities, seek support, and implement long-term changes to rebuild your energy and well-being.

Remember, the journey to recovery and prevention is a personal one. Each step you take towards better self-care and balance is a step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. For further guidance and support, consider exploring resources from Laylo wellness, where you can find additional tips and practices to enhance your journey toward well-being.

In closing, we hope this series has provided you with valuable insights and practical tools to navigate the complexities of burnout. Embrace the process of self-discovery and healing, and know that you have the power to create a balanced and vibrant life. Stay committed to your well-being, and let each day be a testament to your strength and resilience.

laylo yoga and wellness

You don’t have to choose between success and well-being. Step away from the chaos, reset your mind and body, and realign with what truly matters. Our wellness retreats, online courses, and free resources give you the space to breathe, reflect, and design a life that feels fulfilling—without guilt, without compromise.

Be the first to know about upcoming retreats—join the info list for dates and details.

Let’s stay connected! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala for exclusive updates and insights.

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THE HIDDEN BURNOUT TRIGGERS DRAINING YOUR ENERGY

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Burnout is a growing concern in today’s fast-paced world, affecting individuals across various demographics.

Characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a diminished sense of personal accomplishment, burnout is a state of chronic stress that can severely impact your health, productivity, and quality of life.

Among the myriad causes of burnout, job stress and family responsibilities, including caring for children, grandchildren, and aging parents, are particularly significant. And of critical importance to note, these responsibilities are often things we are happy to do. At first.

The ongoing nature of the tasks involved, the gradual squeezing out of any time for yourself, and the general expectation that you will continue at this pace indefinitely, is often what pushes people from “glad to help” to “how do I get the hell out of here?!”

Let’s dive into these causes, who is affected, and examine why burnout tends to be more pronounced among women.

Job Stress: A Primary Culprit

Job stress is a major contributor to burnout, with numerous studies underscoring its pervasive impact. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 79% of Americans report experiencing work-related stress.

Key factors contributing to job stress include:

  1. High Workload: Excessive work demands, tight deadlines, and long hours are commonplace in many industries, leading to chronic stress.
  2. Lack of Control: Employees often feel powerless in their roles, lacking control over their work processes or decisions, which exacerbates stress.
  3. Unclear Job Expectations: Uncertain expectations and inconsistent feedback can create confusion and anxiety.
  4. Work-Life Imbalance: The blurring of boundaries between work and personal life, especially with the rise of remote work, makes it challenging to disengage from job-related stressors.

A 2022 Gallup survey revealed that 44% of employees experience significant job-related stress daily, emphasizing the widespread nature of this issue.

Family Responsibilities: The Added Burden

While the World Health Organization categorizes burnout as an “occupational phenomenon”, there is far more to it than that. In addition to job stress, family responsibilities significantly contribute to burnout.

Caring for children, grandchildren, and aging parents presents unique challenges that can strain an individual’s emotional and physical resources.

  1. Childcare: Parenting demands constant attention, emotional support, and physical care, which can be exhausting. According to the Pew Research Center, 41% of working parents find it difficult to manage work and family responsibilities.
  2. Grandparenting: Many grandparents are stepping in to provide childcare, a trend that has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Grandparents Association reports that nearly 7.8 million children in the U.S. live in households headed by grandparents.
  3. Elder Care: Caring for aging parents involves managing medical appointments, providing daily care, and handling financial and legal matters. AARP estimates that about 53 million Americans are unpaid caregivers, with many reporting high levels of stress.

The Gender Disparity: Why Burnout is Worse for Women

While burnout affects everyone, it disproportionately impacts women due to a combination of societal expectations, workplace dynamics, and family responsibilities.

  1. Societal Expectations: Women often face societal pressure to excel both at work and in their roles as caregivers, leading to unrealistic expectations and chronic stress.
  2. Workplace Inequality: Despite advancements, women still encounter gender discrimination, pay disparities, and limited career advancement opportunities. The World Economic Forum reports that women are less likely to hold senior positions, contributing to job dissatisfaction and burnout.
  3. Double Burden: Women are more likely to shoulder the majority of household and caregiving responsibilities. The International Labour Organization notes that women perform 76.2% of total hours of unpaid care work, significantly more than men.
  4. Emotional Labor: Women are often expected to manage the emotional needs of their families, adding another layer of stress. This invisible labor includes everything from planning family activities to providing emotional support.

A 2020 study by Lean In and McKinsey & Company found that 1 in 4 women were considering downshifting their careers or leaving the workforce due to burnout, highlighting the severe impact of these combined stressors.

What burnout is not

It’s important to understand that burnout it not just a bad day or even a bad week. It’s more than working long hours or juggling too many tasks. These are contributing factors of course.

It is the prolonged nature of these challenges that turn a rough patch into burnout. It’s why taking breaks, setting boundaries, and learning effective coping strategies are so critical.

How do you know if you are experiencing burnout or are headed that way? Take a moment to reflect and honestly ask yourself the following questions:

Emotional Exhaustion

  1. Do I feel emotionally drained and depleted most of the time?
  2. Do I find it difficult to muster the energy to start or complete tasks?
  3. Am I feeling overwhelmed by my responsibilities and tasks?

Physical Symptoms

  1. Am I experiencing frequent headaches, stomach issues, or other physical symptoms that weren’t there before?
  2. Do I feel constantly tired, even after getting enough sleep?
  3. Have my sleep patterns changed significantly (trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much)?

Cognitive Symptoms

  1. Is it hard for me to concentrate or make decisions?
  2. Do I find myself forgetting things more often than usual?
  3. Am I experiencing a sense of detachment or feeling disconnected from my surroundings or activities?

Emotional Symptoms

  1. Have I become more irritable, impatient, or short-tempered with others?
  2. Do I feel a sense of apathy or lack of interest in things I used to enjoy?
  3. Am I feeling a persistent sense of hopelessness or helplessness?

Behavioral Changes

  1. Have I noticed any changes in my eating habits, such as eating significantly more or less than usual?
  2. Am I withdrawing from social activities or isolating myself from friends and family?
  3. Have my work habits changed, such as procrastinating more or being less productive?

Attitude Towards Work

  1. Do I feel a sense of dread about going to work or starting my workday?
  2. Am I feeling cynical or negative about my job or work environment?
  3. Do I feel unappreciated or undervalued in my work?

Overall Satisfaction

  1. Do I feel a lack of accomplishment or a sense of ineffectiveness in my work or personal life?
  2. Am I questioning whether my work or efforts are making a difference?

Personal Reflection

  1. Am I struggling to find a sense of purpose or meaning in my daily activities?
  2. Do I feel that my work-life balance is heavily skewed or non-existent?
  3. Am I neglecting self-care and not taking time for activities that I find relaxing or enjoyable?

Answering “yes” to several of these questions might indicate that you are experiencing burnout. If this is the case, it may be beneficial to seek support, whether through speaking with a supervisor about your workload, consulting a mental health professional, or finding ways to incorporate more rest and self-care into your routine.

Burnout is real!

Burnout is a multifaceted issue influenced by job stress and extensive family responsibilities. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate its impact.

For women, the challenge is particularly acute due to the compounded pressures of professional and personal expectations.

Addressing burnout requires a holistic approach that includes workplace reforms, societal support systems, and a shift in cultural norms to promote a more balanced and equitable distribution of responsibilities.

laylo yoga and wellness

You don’t have to choose between success and well-being. Step away from the chaos, reset your mind and body, and realign with what truly matters. Our wellness retreats, online courses, and free resources give you the space to breathe, reflect, and design a life that feels fulfilling—without guilt, without compromise.

Be the first to know about upcoming retreats—join the info list for dates and details.

Let’s stay connected! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala for exclusive updates and insights.

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BUSTING BURNOUT MYTHS

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BURNOUT

Unmasking Burnout: Debunking Common Myths

Burnout is an increasingly recognized issue in our fast-paced world, but it’s also widely misunderstood.

Many people attribute burnout to simple dissatisfaction with one’s job or believe it’s solely a job-related issue.

These misconceptions can hinder effective prevention and recovery. Let’s delve into what burnout truly is, what it is not, and debunk some prevalent myths.

Understanding Burnout

Burnout is a state of chronic physical and emotional exhaustion. It is often accompanied by feelings of cynicism and detachment from work or personal life, as well as a sense of reduced accomplishment. It was first recognized in the 1970s by psychologist Herbert Freudenberger, who observed it in professions with high stress levels.

Today, burnout is considered a legitimate occupational phenomenon by the World Health Organization (WHO), which defines it specifically in the context of work. However, understanding it requires recognizing that it extends beyond just job-related issues.

Myth 1: You Don’t Like What You Do

One of the most pervasive myths is that burnout only happens because you don’t like your job. While job dissatisfaction can contribute to it, it is far from the whole story. Many people who love their jobs still experience burnout.

Passionate individuals often push themselves harder, set higher expectations, and may neglect self-care in pursuit of their goals. This is a recipe for burnout. Enjoying your work doesn’t make you immune to the pressures and stresses that cause burnout.

Myth 2: Burnout is Only Job-Related

Another common myth is that this situation is exclusively a job-related issue. While work stress is a significant factor, these feelings can also stem from other areas of life. This might include caregiving responsibilities, personal relationships, or even relentless personal pursuits.

The key elements — exhaustion, cynicism, and feelings of inefficacy—can emerge from any prolonged and intense stress, not just job-related stress.

What It Is

  1. Chronic Stress Response: Burnout is a response to prolonged stress, leading to exhaustion, cynicism, and a feeling of reduced professional efficacy. It’s the result of a constant demand on your resources without adequate time for recovery.
  2. Emotional and Physical Exhaustion: It often manifests as a deep fatigue that isn’t alleviated by rest. This exhaustion impacts both emotional and physical well-being, making it hard to find motivation or energy.
  3. Cynicism and Detachment: People experiencing burnout often become cynical about their work and feel detached from their tasks and colleagues. This can lead to a decline in performance and satisfaction. The same can be true of feelings toward family obligations.
  4. Sense of Inefficacy: It includes a sense of ineffectiveness and lack of accomplishment. Even when tasks are completed, you have a pervasive feeling that nothing is truly achieved.

What It Is Not

  1. Simple Dislike for Work: Disliking your job can cause stress, but burnout is a deeper, more chronic issue. It that goes beyond simple dissatisfaction. It’s an erosion of the soul caused by an imbalance between demands and resources.
  2. A Sign of Weakness: Experiencing burnout doesn’t mean you are weak or incapable. It’s a signal that the environment you’re in, or the way you’re managing stress, is unsustainable. It’s a call to reassess and adjust, not a reflection of personal failure.
  3. A Professional Issue: Burnout isn’t confined to the workplace. Stay-at-home parents, caregivers, students, and anyone facing continuous stress without adequate support can experience burnout.

Addressing Burnout

To effectively combat burnout, it’s crucial to:

  1. Recognize the Signs Early: Understanding the symptoms—chronic fatigue, detachment, and feelings of inefficacy—can help in seeking help sooner.
  2. Promote Work-Life Balance: Ensuring adequate rest, engaging in hobbies, and spending time with loved ones can help mitigate burnout.
  3. Seek Support: Professional help, whether from a mental health professional or a supportive network, can provide strategies and relief.
  4. Prioritize Self-Care: Regular exercise, healthy eating, and mindfulness practices are vital in maintaining overall well-being and resilience against burnout.

Burnout is a complex, multifaceted issue that cannot be reduced to simple dislike for a job or confined to the workplace alone. By debunking these myths and understanding the true nature of it. We can better address it and foster healthier, more sustainable environments both at work and at home.

What Can I Do About It?

We will be talking more about this over the next few posts! Learn to recognize it early, avoid or combat it, and if you are already knee deep, how to overcome it. Stay tuned!

laylo yoga and wellness

You don’t have to choose between success and well-being. Step away from the chaos, reset your mind and body, and realign with what truly matters. Our wellness retreats, online courses, and free resources give you the space to breathe, reflect, and design a life that feels fulfilling—without guilt, without compromise.

Be the first to know about upcoming retreats—join the info list for dates and details.

Let’s stay connected! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala for exclusive updates and insights.

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BATTLING BURNOUT: NAVIGATING MODERN LIFE

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Burnout – the struggle is real!

burnout

We are talking about burnout because it’s as real as that third cup of coffee you’re eyeing right now.

It’s that feeling of being utterly drained, mentally fried, and emotionally wrung out. If you’re nodding along, feeling like your life is a constant game of juggling balls made of glass, then you’re not alone.

So, what exactly is burnout? Well, it’s like trying to run a marathon with lead weights strapped to your ankles. It’s that overwhelming sensation of being pulled in a million different directions, with every task feeling like it’s due yesterday and will be due again tomorrow. Sound familiar?

Picture this: you’re juggling a demanding job, maybe climbing the corporate ladder or running your own business.

Now, add in the pressures of dealing with adult kids who still haven’t quite figured out this whole “adulting” thing. You know the drill: they need advice, financial support, emotional reassurance, and maybe grandkid babysitting while they’re at it. And let’s not forget about the job that’s demanding more from you than ever before. Deadlines, meetings, projects – it’s a never-ending cycle.

Another ball to juggle? Taking care of Mom and/or Dad. Doctor’s appointments, medication schedules, making sure they’re comfortable and cared for while trying to navigate the murky waters of healthcare, finances, and emotional support. It’s a whole other level of responsibility.

How does burnout affect us?

Sounds exhausting, doesn’t it? Well, that’s because it is! Burnout doesn’t discriminate; it can strike anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It can wreak havoc on both our personal and professional lives faster than you can say “take a breather.” From sleepless nights to snapping at loved ones, the signs are all there.

But for us, seasoned women who’ve seen our fair share of battles, the stakes can feel even higher. We’ve spent decades honing our multitasking skills, balancing countless responsibilities, and putting everyone else’s needs before our own. The harsh truth, however, is that you can’t pour from an empty cup.

There is good news though! There are ways to combat burnout and reclaim your sanity. Here are a few tips to help you kick burnout to the curb:

6 tips to battle burnout

  1. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no without feeling guilty – both at work and at home. You don’t have to be superwoman, and it’s okay to prioritize your own well-being.
  2. Delegate Like a Boss: You don’t have to do it all yourself. Whether it’s at work or within your family, learn to delegate tasks and share the load.
winning burnout battle

3. Prioritize Self-Care: I cannot stress this enough. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s survival. Make time for the things that bring you joy, whether it’s a bubble bath, a walk in nature, taking a yoga class, or losing yourself in a good book. And don’t skimp on sleep – your body and mind will thank you for it. Prioritize self-care like it’s your job.

4. Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to lean on friends, family, or even professional support if you need it. You’re not in this alone, and it’s okay to ask for help. This could look like hiring a cleaning service, delegating tasks at work, or enlisting your siblings to pitch in with or hire help for caregiving duties for your parents.

5. Find Balance: Balance is key to avoiding burnout. Take a step back and assess your priorities. Are you spreading yourself too thin? Are there areas of your life that need more attention?

6. Practice Mindfulness: In a world that’s constantly pulling us in a million different directions, mindfulness is like a life raft in a stormy sea. Take a few minutes each day to breathe, center yourself, and tune out the noise. Whether it’s meditation, yoga, or simply savoring a cup of tea (or glass of wine!), find what works for you and make it a non-negotiable part of your routine.

Burnout is NOT a badge of honor. It’s okay to take a step back, reassess, and reprioritize. Your mental and emotional well-being should always come first. So, take a deep breath, put down those juggling balls for a moment, and give yourself the grace to recharge.

You’ve got this! ??

laylo yoga and wellness

You don’t have to choose between success and well-being. Step away from the chaos, reset your mind and body, and realign with what truly matters. Our wellness retreats, online courses, and free resources give you the space to breathe, reflect, and design a life that feels fulfilling—without guilt, without compromise.

Be the first to know about upcoming retreats—join the info list for dates and details.

Let’s stay connected! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala for exclusive updates and insights.

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EMBRACING CHANGE: NAVIGATING MENOPAUSE

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Hello Menopause!

menopause

One minute you’re a pre-teen, excitedly – naively? – waiting for your first period and the next minute you are kissing it goodbye (good riddance!)

Menopause!

The problem is, just like your excitement for your period to start – all that talk of becoming a woman and such – excitement over its ending is also more than a little bit overblown.

I distantly recall looking forward to menopause and the end of the hassle of my period. And then it actually happened. Yes, the hassle of my period was a thing of the past, but now a whole new pack of hassles came my way.

New phase = New problems

First off, let’s get real about the physical effects of menopause. Hot flashes? Night sweats? Mood swings that make you feel like you’re on a never-ending emotional rollercoaster? Yeah, been there, done that. It’s like our bodies are playing a cruel joke on us, right? Our hormones decide to throw us a curveball and seem to be having a wild party of their own.

Not everyone experiences all of these issues, but these are the most common:

  1. Hot flashes: This is one of the most common symptoms of menopause. Hot flashes involve sudden feelings of warmth, which can cause flushing of the face and upper body, sweating, and sometimes chills.
  2. Night sweats: Many women experience hot flashes at night, leading to excessive sweating during sleep.
  3. Vaginal dryness: Decreased estrogen levels can result in thinning and drying of the vaginal tissues, leading to discomfort, itching, and pain during intercourse.
  4. Mood swings: Fluctuations in hormone levels can contribute to mood swings, irritability, and feelings of sadness or anxiety.
  5. Sleep disturbances: Many women experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep during menopause, often due to night sweats or other symptoms.
  6. Weight gain: Changes in hormone levels and metabolism can contribute to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.
  7. Changes in libido: Some women may experience a decrease in sex drive during menopause, while others may experience an increase.
  8. Changes in skin and hair: Decreased estrogen levels can lead to changes in skin elasticity and moisture, as well as thinning and loss of hair.

Sound familiar?

I recall when hot flashes started making an appearance in my life. I was in the middle of moving. My company was going through a sale and my job was eliminated. They asked me to move 600 miles away to take a different role within the company. My husband was on board so we sold our house, bought another, and prepared to move. And then my new job, the one I was uprooting myself and my husband for was eliminated too!

So a little stress and anxiety going on. I thought the stress was getting to me or that I must be coming down with the flu or something. I was feeling hot and then cold, and an anxious pit in my stomach like I was in a rapidly dropping elevator. It sounded about right for the amount of turmoil going on in my personal and professional life.

But then it kept happening.

It slowly began to dawn on me what was going on. Then, when I put on 25 pounds in 6 weeks for no apparent reason, I started to panic! As someone who had spent their entire adult life working out, eating right, and doing all the “good” things, I thought something must be really wrong.

My doctor’s reaction? “Oh, it’s just menopause. Get used to it. It’s part of getting older. Here – take these hormones.”

Ummmm – WHAT?!

I couldn’t believe that this advice was the best I was going to get from the medical community. But sadly, many women have similar experiences.

Yoga for menopause

I felt like I needed more support than what I was getting from my doctor.

Enter yoga.

I discovered that when you roll out your mat and sink into a soothing child’s pose or flow through a gentle vinyasa, you’re not just stretching your muscles; you’re also giving your nervous system a much-needed break.

Yoga has this incredible ability to tap into our parasympathetic nervous system, aka our body’s built-in chill button.

So when those hot flashes come knocking or the mood swings start creeping in, a few minutes on the mat can help you find your center again.

But it’s not just about the physical stuff. Menopause can also take a toll on our mental health, leaving us feeling like we’re lost in a fog of uncertainty. Anxiety, depression, and that nagging sense of “what’s next?” can become all too familiar companions. This is where yoga’s power to quiet the mind comes into play.

Through breathwork, meditation, and mindful movement, yoga can help us cultivate a sense of inner peace and resilience. It’s like giving your mind a spa day, allowing it to unwind and let go of all those worries and doubts. And let’s be honest, we could all use a little more zen in our lives, especially when navigating the choppy waters of menopause.

Yoga is not a menopause magic bullet

But perhaps the most beautiful thing about yoga is its ability to reconnect us with our bodies in a profound way. During menopause, it’s easy to feel like our bodies are betraying us, like we’re no longer in control. But through yoga, we can reclaim that sense of agency and learn to embrace our bodies exactly as they are.

Whether it’s through gentle restorative poses that nurture tired muscles or empowering strength-building sequences that remind us of our own badassery, yoga invites us to celebrate the incredible vessel that carries us through life’s ups and downs.

So if you find yourself grappling with the ups and downs of menopause, know that you’re not alone. And remember, your yoga mat is always there to catch you when you stumble, to soothe you when the heat rises, and to remind you of the resilient woman that you truly are.

Inhale the good stuff, exhale the rest, and remember: you’ve got this, sister!

laylo yoga and wellness

You don’t have to choose between success and well-being. Step away from the chaos, reset your mind and body, and realign with what truly matters. Our wellness retreats, online courses, and free resources give you the space to breathe, reflect, and design a life that feels fulfilling—without guilt, without compromise.

Be the first to know about upcoming retreats—join the info list for dates and details.

Let’s stay connected! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala for exclusive updates and insights.

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5 LIFE LESSONS I LEARNED FROM MY HAIR

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Life Lessons

My hair is living its own life – I’m just sort of along for the ride

And it’s always ready to school me in it’s latest life lessons.

Most of you know I started my professional life as a hairdresser, but really, my hair obsession started far earlier than that.

It started in 1973. I had always had bangs, thanks to my mother’s method of using TAPE (!) to create a “straight” line to cut my bangs. Except that I had some pretty wicked cowlicks in the front and the bangs were never straight.

I decided to let my bangs grow out, to which my mom replied with relief “yes, that is probably best.”

There I was, 7 years old and my hair was calling the shots

Flash forward a few years. 1979. I had my own money – hello babysitting – and paid for my own haircuts. I had a place that I actually liked but my mom had a coupon for a new place and talked me into going there instead.

Immediately the stylist said I should get the “Dorothy Hamill” haircut aka a wedge. I was not into it, I told her I was not into it, I even told her my father did not want me to have short hair (which was the truth).

She said okay.

Then turned me away from the mirror and proceeded to cut – you guessed it – a perfect wedge.

My school picture that year has me looking like I want to kill someone. And I did. That hairdresser.

Jump ahead another few years.

I’m in Beauty School to become a hairdresser.

That’s right – I’m now a hairdresser. In the 80’s.

Perms. Mousse. White Rain hairspray. The whole nine baby.

I had a solid decade of perm.

Then I wanted to color it too.

It was too much for my poor strands so I had to choose.

Color won out. It was the 90’s now. Perms were kind of passe. Warm reddish brown was the new me.

Life Lessons - 80's perm

Enter the phase of trying to just figure it out

After all, two young kids, an active lifestyle, and limited time and funds were the order of the day.

My life has continued to evolve and so has my hair.

I still love style products. I wear it relatively short in spite of what my dad thinks. And believe it or not, I actually like my hair (most of the time).

It all works because I realized my hair is WISE! It was doing more than just sitting on my head, causing me grief. My hair was teaching me some life lessons and I just needed to sit up and take notice.

Lesson 1: Don’t fight it!

Back in the 70’s when the whole bangs situation was rearing up (literally!) my hair was clearly saying “Hey, this is who I am. You can try to do something that doesn’t work but I will assert myself!”

There are parts of you that you quite possibly ignore, thinking they are a little too wild, a little too out there. The more you try to force yourself into a straight line, the more those parts will have to assert themselves.

If you just let it go and let it be what it is going to be, it will likely settle in after a bit and be just fine. You just have to get over the awkward grow-out phase.

We are all growing and changing. Sometimes trying out something new seems weird or out of your wheelhouse initially until you figure out the nuances that suit you.

Lesson 2: Trust your gut

That Dorothy Hamill haircut was the worst! So. Not. Me.

And I had paid for it!

I had someone that was right for me, that knew and understood my hair. But with just a little pressure – and a desire to please my mom – I ignored my gut, went to someone I didn’t want to go to even though it was my own money and paid not just with my money but my dignity as well.

I have had this lesson taught to me repeatedly. I think I was about 38 before it sunk in.

Do what works for you, not for someone else. They don’t have to live with the consequences and you do.

When I first started on my yoga journey I hated it! Eventually, though I figured out what yoga meant to me, focused on that, and then fell in love with it!

Lesson 3: Be who you really are

I loved my crazy 80’s perm. For awhile. My hair, however, eventually objected. “One more perm and I will frizz you!!”

While I liked the kinky curl that defined the era, that wasn’t my hair’s true nature. My real hair was a bit wavy in places, straight here and there, soft and even glossy.

I didn’t need all that frenetic energy. It was not me. Not for my hair and not for my personality. I am not one of those party and stay out late kind of people. I am asleep by 10p (okay really 9:30p…).

Trying to be something I am not just left me frizzy around the edges! While I loved aspects of it for other people, I needed to focus on what worked best for me.

Lesson 4: But also be whom you aspire to be

After giving up the perm I did give in to some color.

Nothing way off base. Just a little more warmth to liven things up a bit.

Still me, just a little bit fancied up.

We all aspire to be a certain way – a little nicer/kinder, more open and friendly, or whatever.

“Acting as if” isn’t about being a fake, it’s more about taking what you’ve got and just pushing to the next level, to be the person you want to be.

Lesson 5: A little control is good; too much just makes you brittle

Hairspray is kinda my first and longest love. Back in the day, it was all about shellacking the hell out of your hair.

It could not move.

It also flaked, made your hair dry and dull and definitely uninviting.

These days I still like some control – hello Kenra 25

But it’s soft, doesn’t build up, and lets my hair still feel like hair.

Life is the same way. Too much control and things may appear to be “perfect” but really your life is stiff and brittle, not organic and flexible.

You want freedom within your framework. Structure yes, but not rigidity. The ability to go with the flow is a lot healthier for you in the end.

Ahhh…now my attraction to yoga makes sense! The very heart of yoga allows you to find structure, learning to accept yourself as you are now and as you wish to be. Life lessons GALORE!

Life lessons are all around you

Yes, even in something as seemingly inconsequential as your hair (shh – don’t let my hair know I said that!)

You just have to look at things from a little bit of a different perspective. Find that space for yourself, that grace for yourself, and carve out the time to act on it.

laylo yoga and wellness

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