#008: ‘Tis the season of burnout. Look after yourself

Last week we launched our Christmas campaign to show the real side of Christmas, a time that often feels less like a season of joy, and more like a logistical puzzle.

Whilst this gives a humorous take on the Christmas tropes via our alternative Carols, it also unveils a serious side.

As women, we statistically carry the bulk of the mental load.

Not only are we having to do it all, but we also live in a time when it needs to ‘look perfect’ along the way. It’s overwhelming and all-consuming, and when you throw perimenopause into the mix, it’s like a recipe for burnout.

So, let’s talk about what we can actually do when the holiday stress starts to creep in, because if it’s not here already, there is a huge chance that it is on its way.

Because while it’s important to acknowledge the struggle, it’s just as important to find ways to navigate through it—on your own terms.

The holiday season is full of expectations. Parties, family get-togethers, secret Santa exchanges, cookie swaps—the list never seems to end. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to say yes to everything.

This is your reminder that “no” is a perfectly valid answer. No explanations or apologies required. Sometimes, the most freeing thing you can do is create a little breathing space by choosing only what truly matters toyou.

There’s this unspoken rule that Christmas has to be flawless—gourmet meals, impeccably wrapped gifts, a home that looks like it was plucked from a holiday film. But perfection is a myth, and chasing it only adds to the stress.

This year, let’s ditch the pressure to create an Instagram-worthy holiday. Burnt cookies, mismatched decorations, last-minute gifts… they’re all part of the real, messy, beautiful experience. Give yourself permission to not have it all together, and see how much lighter it feels.

Perimenopause can throw a lot of curveballs, and it’s easy to ignore the signs your body is sending when you’re busy trying to do everything.

But this is the perfect time to listen more closely.

Feeling anxious? Overwhelmed? Take a step back. Need a nap in the middle of the day? Take it. Hungry for a piece of cake? Have it. Your body is navigating a lot, and it’s okay to slow down and give it what it needs—even if that means going to bed early on Christmas Eve.

The holidays don’t have to look like anyone else’s version of Christmas. Maybe the thought of cooking a giant Christmas dinner feels impossible right now. So why not make something simpler, or order in, and spend more time with the people who make you feel good?

Maybe you’d rather spend the day watching movies, taking a walk, or just having a quiet cup of tea by yourself. Create moments that actually bring you joy, and let go of the rest.

Some of us recharge by being around others, while some of us find peace in solitude. If you need to vent, laugh, or just be with someone who gets it, reach out. And if you need a little alone time to find your centre, that’s okay too. The most important thing is that you’re tuning in to what feels right for you, not just what others expect.

This season, let’s give ourselves the gift of compassion and gentleness. Because it’s not just about surviving the holidays; it’s about finding a way to let a little bit of joy back in, even if it’s small and quiet and just for you.

So, if the lights aren’t twinkling quite as bright, or you find yourself fighting through the fog, remember: you’re doing enough, you’re being enough, and sometimes just getting through it is more than enough.

Read our blog on the ‘Hierarchy of Hormones’ to understand the negative effects that stress, chronically elevated cortisol and dysregulated progesterone can have so you can get to grips with your wonderfully intricate body.

Balance Hormones Naturally: How to Manage Symptoms Effectively

Burnout by Emily Nagoski, PhD, and Amelia Nagoski, DMA, is the ultimate guide to reclaiming your energy, your boundaries, and your joy.

Written by the dynamic sister duo, this book breaks down the science of stress and emotional exhaustion in a way that actually makes sense (finally!). They unpack why women, in particular, bear the brunt of burnout and how societal expectations, the "human giver syndrome," and our biology play into it. Spoiler: it’s not your fault, but there is a way through it.

Think of this as your survival manual for modern life: filled with science-backed strategies, practical tips, and those aha moments that’ll have you shouting, ‘Why didn’t anyone tell me this sooner?’ Oh, and it’s not all doom and gloom—they sprinkle in plenty of humour and relatable anecdotes that’ll leave you nodding along and feeling seen.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on empty but can’t seem to hit the brakes, this book is your permission slip to rest, reset, and rise.