A few weeks ago, I found myself in an unusual position for a usually happy person. I'd wake up in the morning, stumble into the bathroom, and begrudgingly open my eyes to blinding sunshine. I didn't need to open the frosted window to know there wasn't a cloud in the sky. The mountains that sit just a few miles from my home were (and still are, and usually are) shrouded in a toxic fog of pollution and dust, sometimes so thick you literally can't see the mountains at all. On this particular week, not even a hint of silhouette lingered behind the thick miasma of particulate. My allergies, something I only acquired since living in the desert, don't appreciate the haze, but it's my lungs that truly despise the abysmal air quality. They burned as I took a deep breath, all the while suppressing the disturbing mental image of what the arid, dusty air has done to the healthy pink tissue. With a groan I returned to bed, throwing the covers over my head as I attempted to convince myself it was time to get up and embrace the day.
But for a couple of days a few weeks ago, I simply couldn't. Just the thought of trudging downstairs and beginning my regular routine was too much for me. I couldn't even bring myself to write, which was unsettling to, you know, a writer. I've spent the past five years of my life writing (much of it under varying pen names), not because I hate it but because I thrive on it. Yet every once in a while, always during the peak of the summer heat, I hit a proverbial wall. I don't want to get out of bed. I don't want to get dressed. I don't want to do anything except eat leftovers and read books.
Sounds like depression, hm? It's not. It's emotional burnout, and I'm guessing you've encountered this a time or two as well.
For most people this happens during the winter. The bitter temperatures, mounting snow, and scant amount of daylight leave people weary and worn-out. Your mood shifts for the worse, you struggle to feel inspired, and you dread getting out of the warm embrace of your bed only to be met with frigid room air.
But it can happen any time of year. Maybe you've watched the news for, oh, fifteen minutes and have now lost your faith in humanity. Maybe you're stuck at a job that makes you miserable. We've all experienced it at one point or another, especially those who are caregivers (whether mothers, doctors, nurses, caring for an ailing loved one, etc.).
You don't WANT to feel this way, and yet you do. You're a happy person; you enjoy your life. And yet no matter how you struggle to see the bright side, you only seem to feel blah and ho-hum.
Yep, emotional burnout is a bitch, Michaela. Now what do I do about it???
Magick, of course! (Well, magick lite. Your energy is low, after all!)
While there are other ways to replenish your weary soul, an Emotional Rejuvenation Bath is a relaxing way to recharge and reset after a bad day, long week, or an exhausting period in your life. Utilize dimmed lights or candles, play some relaxing music if desired, and give yourself at least twenty minutes (the longer the better!) to quiet your mind and disconnect from the world.
Emotional Rejuvenation Bath
1/4 cup Magnesium Flakes
4 drops sandalwood essential oil
3 drops clary sage essential oil
3 drops lavender essential oil
2 drops rosemary essential oil
Dissolve the magnesium flakes into warm, running bath water. Add the essential oil. Before getting in, take a moment to envision yourself feeling refreshed and revitalized upon getting out. Soak as long as desired.
Soaking in magnesium will make you feel sleepy, so it's best to use this recipe just before bed. Add a drop or two of lavender oil to your pillow to help you sleep peacefully!
If you're prone to UTIs or aren't a fan of baths, simply use this mixture in a foot bath! Adjust measurements as follows:
2 Tablespoons Magnesium Flakes
3 drops sandalwood essential oil
2 drops clary sage essential oil
2 drops lavender essential oil
1 drops rosemary essential oil
And remember, if you're feeling a little burned out, go easy on yourself! Take some extra "you" time for reading. Don't berate yourself for skipping dinner and ordering takeout. And make sure to eat a nourishing diet. If you're under stress, your body is under stress as well! A diet rich in vegetables and fruits helps us combat the taxing effects of stress and emotional fatigue.
Sending you love, my friends!
What do you do to pamper yourself when you're feeling stressed? What's your favorite guilty pleasure?
Looking for more self-care? Check out more self-care magick by treating yourself to a copy of The Self-Care Spell Book. Every purchase helps keep the site alive and supplied with free material, so thank you! ♥
Looking for more self-care? Check out more self-care magick by treating yourself to a copy of The Self-Care Spell Book. Every purchase helps keep the site alive and supplied with free material, so thank you! ♥
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NOTE: As with any recommendation found on this blog, consult your doctor or naturopath before use.
