Burnout Is Real — Here’s How to Gently Come Back to Yourself

sparkandstone
Jun 16
3 min read

Let’s talk about burnout.

Not the kind that goes away after a good night’s sleep or a slow weekend. I mean the kind that seeps into your bones — the mental fog, the emotional drain, the lack of joy in things you used to love.

If you’ve felt this, you’re not alone. So many of us are walking around running on empty, constantly pouring into everyone else while barely remembering to check in with ourselves.

But here’s the truth: You were never meant to run on fumes.

At Spark & Stone Co., I believe in creating space to reconnect — to breathe, to reset, and to return to what lights you up. That’s why I do what I do!

But first — let’s talk about how to actually recover from burnout in real life.

What Is Burnout, Really?

Burnout isn’t laziness or a lack of motivation. It’s a real, physiological response to chronic stress — emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual.

You might be experiencing burnout if you’re:

Always tired, even after sleep
Struggling to concentrate or stay present
Easily overwhelmed or emotionally numb
Feeling disconnected from your passions or people
Noticing headaches, muscle tension, or irritability

And here’s the hard part: burnout doesn’t usually hit all at once. It sneaks up, one overextended “yes” at a time.

How to Gently Recover from Burnout

There’s no magic fix, but there are small, restorative shifts you can make today to begin your healing.

1. Simplify Your Expectations

You don’t need a total lifestyle makeover. Start with just one thing. What can you delegate, delay, or let go of this week?

Sometimes “good enough” is more than enough.

2. Create Simple Daily Practices

You don’t need a 10-step morning routine. Try anchoring your day with just one sensory cue — like lighting a candle while you journal, misting a calming room spray before bed, or diffusing a scent that helps you feel grounded while you work.

Burnout thrives in chaos. Rituals restore calm.

3. Add Back Joy — Just for You

Burnout convinces us that joy must be earned. But joy is nourishment. Whether it’s reading, crafting, or simply resting in the quiet, it counts.

If you’re looking for something light, cozy, and fulfilling, I invite you to join our Lit & Lounge monthly book club. We read one book a month (no pressure if you don’t finish!) and create space for connection, candles, and conversation.

📚 Lit & Lounge is your permission slip to slow down, read for pleasure, and refill your cup — without guilt. Join us here