247. You're Not Lazy - Your Nervous System Is Fried!

In this episode, Anna explains why what we label as "laziness" is often actually burnout and nervous system overload. She shares her own experience of hitting a wall after years of high productivity, describes how chronic stress keeps us stuck in survival mode, and outlines simple, science-backed ways to regulate the nervous system. Listeners are encouraged to see burnout as a biological state—not a character flaw—and to reclaim energy through rest, boundaries, and basic self-care.

Key Points

• Burnout is a nervous system issue, not a character flaw
• Mindset matters at first, then stress becomes a physical response
• Chronic stress keeps you in sympathetic "fight-or-flight" mode
• Symptoms: exhaustion, no joy, low motivation, poor sleep
• Burnout can impact digestion, immunity, focus, and metabolism
• Anna shares personal story of overworking and hitting a wall
• People-pleasing and fear of disappointing others fuel burnout
• Regulation, not "more discipline," is what you actually need
• Be mindful who you spend time with—some drain, some energize
• Step back from draining people and obligations when needed
• Protect your schedule and take real time off to reset
• Prioritize basics: sleep, healthy food, movement, sunlight
• Do 2–3 minutes of deep breathing first thing in the morning
• Morning breathwork can reduce reactivity throughout the day
• Feeling "lazy" may be your nervous system asking for rest

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