Yoga for Burnout

What is burnout? It is a term we often refer to, particularly interchangeably with stress, but what does it actually mean?  As a wellbeing coach working with adults and young people, burnout often presents in a plethora of ways with one common factor – exhaustion. Recently the World Health Organisation classified burnout in relation to an occupational phenomenon. Contemporary life can often see workers constantly working due to a heavy load and range of demands but also due to technology, never being able to stop thinking and actioning work-based tasks.  

Many workplaces now offer wellbeing programmes to staff in the form of Yoga related practices which can be extremely beneficial, however the type of class and experience of the teacher can greatly influence just how effective this intervention can be. Those that are feeling exhausted are not likely to benefit from a physically challenging yoga class, instead the focus should be on restoration and renewal. Yin Yoga is particularly beneficial as an antidote to our fast-paced, often hectic, lives, focusing on postures that provide support, rest and nourishment as well as an invitation to tune inwards. Regular yoga practice helps to balance our nervous system and support us to create an internal environment in the body and mind to promote renewal, which is ideal for those feeling burnt out and depleted.  

By Rina Modi (Wellness Coach and Shala Teacher Training Consultant)