Kristen Jakobitz, a prominent figure in women's health and fitness, is committed to guiding midlife women to reclaim their vitality and well-being. Drawing inspiration from her personal health struggles and transformative weight loss journey,
Life gets busy, and as high-achieving women, we often push ourselves to keep going, even when our bodies are asking us to pause. We pride ourselves on being resilient and capable, but sometimes, ignoring those subtle signals can lead to burnout.
Let’s explore the five most common signs your body is hinting that it's time to take a break—and why listening to them is actually a powerful act of self-care.
1. Persistent fatigue no matter how much you rest
Despite getting your recommended hours of sleep, you wake up feeling like you’ve barely rested. If coffee and adrenaline are the only things getting you through the day, your body may be begging for more than a good night’s sleep—it needs a break.
Why this matters
Constant fatigue is more than just feeling tired; it can indicate your body’s energy reserves are depleted. If left unchecked, it can snowball into chronic issues like adrenal insufficiency, leaving you mentally and physically exhausted.
What you can do
Start by integrating small, restorative moments into your day. Even short breaks to breathe deeply or meditate can help your body recharge. Set boundaries with work, and consider using your evenings and weekends to unwind rather than tackling additional tasks. Sometimes, a day of full rest can do wonders for energy restoration.
2. Increased irritability and mood swings
Does everything feel like it’s getting on your nerves lately? Are minor inconveniences suddenly unbearable? These could be signs of emotional burnout—a state where your stress levels start impacting your mental well-being.
Why this matters
Chronic stress is taxing not only on your mental health but also on your physical body. When we push ourselves too hard, our stress hormones (like cortisol) remain elevated, which can amplify feelings of irritability and impatience.
What you can do
It might sound simple, but give yourself permission to slow down. Take time each day to practice gratitude or engage in a relaxing hobby. Consider dedicating a few minutes to journaling to release stress and manage emotions before they take a toll.
3. Trouble sleeping despite exhaustion
It’s ironic—when we need rest the most, it can be the hardest to come by. Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early can be signs that your mind is struggling to unwind and let go.
Why this matters
Sleep is when our bodies undergo crucial repair and rejuvenation. A chronic lack of quality sleep can impact cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall well-being, making it harder to handle daily challenges.
What you can do
Create a calming bedtime routine that signals to your brain it’s time to wind down. Limit screen time before bed, as blue light disrupts melatonin production, the hormone responsible for sleep. Instead, opt for reading, journaling, or a warm bath to relax your body and mind.
4. Physical aches and pains with no clear cause
From headaches and muscle tension to frequent colds, physical ailments often creep in when we’re overdue for a break. When our bodies are constantly under stress, our immune system takes a hit, leaving us more susceptible to illnesses and injuries.
Why this matters
Physical discomforts are often our body’s way of saying, “Slow down.” Research shows that ignoring these signals can lead to more severe health concerns over time, as chronic stress physically affects our muscles, immune system, and even our digestive health.
What you can do
Consider incorporating gentle, restorative exercises into your routine, like yoga or stretching. Avoid strenuous workouts during periods of extreme stress, as they can exacerbate physical symptoms. Rest days aren’t just for athletes—they’re essential for everyone!
5. Lack of motivation and interest in what you love
If you’ve lost your spark for activities you usually enjoy, it’s a clear sign of emotional and mental fatigue. It’s common to feel “off” now and then, but a persistent lack of enthusiasm for things you once loved can signal burnout.
Why this matters
Our passions and hobbies are crucial for mental health and self-fulfillment. When we lose interest in them, it’s often because we’re overwhelmed and need a reset.
What you can do
Take a step back and evaluate how you’re spending your energy. Reassess your priorities and make sure you’re dedicating time to activities that make you feel fulfilled. Sometimes, all it takes is a short break to rekindle that passion.
Finding balance: Listening to your body is a powerful act of self-care
As high-achieving women, it’s easy to view taking a break as a sign of weakness. But in reality, listening to your body’s needs is one of the most empowering steps you can take toward long-term success and well-being. These signs are not barriers—they’re cues that help you course-correct before burnout takes over.
Ready to learn how to find true balance?
If any of these signs resonate, it may be time to take a closer look at your lifestyle. I offer personalized wellness coaching for women like you—driven, ambitious, and in need of support to find harmony between achievement and well-being. Book a free consultation call today to discover how to listen to your body’s cues, optimize your health, and stay energized for the goals you’re so passionate about.
Kristen Jakobitz, Women's Health & Fitness Coach
Kristen Jakobitz, a prominent figure in women's health and fitness, is committed to guiding midlife women to reclaim their vitality and well-being. Drawing inspiration from her personal health struggles and transformative weight loss journey, Kristen developed effective strategies to help women achieve optimal wellness and embrace their best selves. As the founder of Kristen Jakobitz Health Coaching, a leading online platform, Kristen is dedicated to helping women worldwide unlock their true potential in health, fitness, and life. Her unwavering mission: No woman left behind.
