Working with Overwhelm

Hi friends,

Overwhelm doesn’t look the same for everyone. It can show up in subtle ways or take over completely.

Lately, I’ve been feeling it more than usual.

What’s been particularly challenging is the disconnect between my brain and my body. My body feels undeniably overwhelmed — hypersensitive, tired, on edge — while my brain insists there’s no “good reason” for it.

And that mismatch can feel confusing.

Can you relate?

See below to read more

I’m so grateful for my Mindful Living practice because even though this season feels challenging, I know my work is to listen to the feedback my body is offering — and to honor it as best I can.

This is what it means to work with overwhelm.

Even when the mind insists:

“You should…”

“You were able to do X, Y, and Z a month ago — so you should be able to do it now.”

“You’re just being dramatic.” “You’re weak.”

The body is not the enemy. It is always trying to restore balance.

And learning to listen — especially when the mind is loud — is the practice.

Online Practice Join Kate on Instagram LIVE for a short practice to slow down and find some calm and peace. Go LIVE @mindfullivingwithkate

In-Person Practice Come practice with Kate at New Moon Yoga in Franklin, TN. Come for both classes or choose one. All are welcome! Sign Up Here

If overwhelm has been visiting you too, I recently saw THIS post on Instagram with a few books that thoughtfully explore this topic.

I've personally read: Wintering & How to do the Work. Sometimes it helps simply to know we’re not alone in what we’re feeling.

I also found THIS article on the Calm app with practical suggestions for working with overwhelm in small, supportive ways. 

This month, I’ll be continuing the conversation on Instagram as we practice breathing, listening, and honoring our bodies together. And in April, I’ll be offering a 4-week Online Video Series called Working with Overwhelm for those who’d like to practice with me.

For now, here’s what I’m committing to as a way of listening to and honoring my own body:

1. Attending one yoga class each week.

2. Reading one chapter at a time with my cousin from one of my favorite books, Heart-Minded by Sarah Blondin.

3. Journaling for ten minutes each weekday morning to gently empty what feels cluttered in my heart and mind.

Nothing dramatic. Nothing extreme. Just small, steady acts of care.

What is one small practice you can offer yourself — and your body — in response to your overwhelm?

Always practicing with you!

Blessings & Peace,

*kate*