Sometimes all of my responsibilities just feel like too much. I feel like I could use an indefinite vacation. The thought of all that I HAVE to do just feels so overwhelming. Maybe you can relate.

Instead of fantasizing about walking away – do something about your burn out. Hire a therapist, let off some steam with your girlfriends, discover the joy of moving your body in a yoga or a Zumba class. Even a few hours away in a “mini vacation” can do wonders.

Better yet, make time to attend a Yoga Retreat. You get the benefits of all of the above; plus, a change of scenery, a welcoming community, home cooked meals and wine – what’s not to love? A yoga retreat will definitely change your perspective and maybe even your life. Find out more here.

If you’re like me, finding balance seems impossible. I feel like I spend too much time doing what I need to do and only fantasize about what I want to do. I realized recently that what I want to do – take a break – is exactly what I need to do!

I’ve found balance in life, is so much like a balance pose in Yoga. When my thoughts are racing and I feel my life is spinning out of control, I topple over. I’ve found falling is a little easier in Yoga. Falling out of balance in life can be traumatic. Not just for me, but for my family, my friends and most of all – me.

I fell out of balance last year about this time, I ended up physically sick, injured and emotionally overwhelmed. I nursed myself back to health by cancelling all social obligations (even the ones I love!) and spending quality time with myself reading and journaling. The only time I left the house was to take long walks with Zoe and go to Yoga.

This is what I discovered during my “Self-Care Staycation”

Prioritize Yourself – It sounds trite, but it’s so true. If we are not getting our needs we can’t begin to tackle our to-do list. The need for self-care should come immediately after the needs for basic survival and personal safety are met. Our relationship with self is crucial.

Let go of the Non-Essentials – In your life, in your home, in your relationships. I love the minimalist lifestyle. I’m not there yet, but I’m definitely on my way. Getting rid of so much stuff that’s holding me back feels amazing.

Learn to Say No – However you say it, remember a “no” to obligations that don’t serve you, is a yes to you and what matters to you – family, friends, self-care and living an authentic life. Obligations taking you away from you and your journey to your authentic self just aren’t worth it.

Let Go of Perfection, Control, People Pleasing and Any Other Habit that is Sabotaging Your Way Forward – I spent years of my life trying to control – every stinking thing. I’m here to tell you I was stressed and exhausted when I was living that life. When you can let go of whatever obsession is sabotaging you, you’ll find peace, joy and forward motion.

Forgive, Forget and Move On – When you hold onto a particular memory or event that causes feelings of trauma and pain and suffering, your mind is constantly trying to figure out what went wrong and how you can fix it. These memories can be everything from the small (somebody cut in front of you in the self check-out line at the grocery store) to the huge (a painful divorce or the estrangement of a loved one). A skilled counselor is always a go to when experiencing the unrest caused by a devastating loss. Recently, I’ve added Expressive Writing to my self care rouitine. It’s transformational. We explore that concept in detail at the Love Yourself Retreat.

Here are even more tips if you’re suffering from burn out.

Life is too short to waste another minute being out of balance and completely miserable. Take a Self-Care Staycation or join us for an all-inclusive Yoga Retreat. Start with one small step on your journey to you. You really can’t start too soon.