burnout secret to unlocking stress cycle

Progressive muscle relaxation: This technique involves tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups in the body, one at a time, in order to release physical tension and promote relaxation.Ĭoloring, panting, knitting, warm bath/shower, playing music, walking, hiking. Prioritize rest and recovery: Nagoski emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and getting enough sleep, as well as engaging in activities that promote relaxation and self-care.Įxamples of self-care activities include:ĭeep breathing exercise: Take a slow, deep inhale for a count of four, hold the breath for a count of four, then exhale slowly for a count of 6.Here is a summary review of some of the key strategies with tools I’ve added to support the execution of Nagoski’s highlighted themes: She also suggests engaging in social connection activities, such as spending time with loved ones or engaging in a group activity, as this can help us feel supported and reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. To close the stress cycle, Nagoski suggests engaging in physical activities that release tension and promote relaxation, such as exercise, yoga, or dancing. Humans, however, often experience chronic stress that is not resolved by a single event, and we may not engage in activities that help us complete the stress cycle. Once the zebra escapes, it shakes and trembles to release the tension from its body and complete the stress response cycle. Nagoski gives the example of animals in the wild who experience stress, such as a zebra being chased by a lion. In other words, it’s not enough to simply “manage” or cope with stress we also need to actively engage in activities that help our bodies complete the stress response cycle. In the book Burnout by Emily Nagoski, the author provides several stress management strategies that can help individuals cope with and prevent burnout.Įmily Nagoski explains the concept of “closing the stress cycle” as the idea that stress is a physiological response that needs to be completed or “cycled through” in order for the body to return to a state of calm.

Burnout secret to unlocking stress cycle