Spa experiences for burnout

The World Health Organization describes burnout as a syndrome resulting from workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. Furthermore, the American Psychological Association writes:

"American workers across the board saw heightened rates of burnout in 2021, and according to APA’s 2021 Work and Well-being Survey of 1,501 U.S. adult workers, 79% of employees had experienced work-related stress in the month before the survey. Nearly 3 in 5 employees reported negative impacts of work-related stress, including lack of interest, motivation, or energy (26%) and lack of effort at work (19%). Meanwhile, 36% reported cognitive weariness, 32% reported emotional exhaustion, and an astounding 44% reported physical fatigue—a 38% increase since 2019."

Typically, there are said to be three broad categories of burnout:

Overload burnout

When you've been working to the point of exhaustion. This typically manifests as feeling the need to work harder and harder to achieve all your goals. You probably feel as though you're stretched too thin.

Under-challenge burnout

When you feel bored or unmotivated, and sometimes unnoticed and under-appreciated by your peers and superiors.

Neglect burnout

Neglect burnout happens when you aren't given enough guidance in the workplace, leaving you feeling helpless, frustrated, and uncertain.

Signs of burnout

Typically, the signs of burnout include the following whichever type you have:

• Lack of motivation
• A feeling of apathy
• A desire to procrastinate
• Headaches and body aches
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Feeling helpless
• Feeling irritated all the time
• Losing optimism
• Questioning your life choices

Combating burnout

Combating burnout isn't a ones-stop-shop and everyone benefits from different areas of support. However, lots of people find that reaching out for support helps. That might be a friend, loved one, psychologist or other healthcare practitioner. Self-care can also help. Washington University in St Louis suggests:

• Physical activity
• Mindfulness activities and meditation
• Getting enough sleep
• Setting boundaries
• Booking a holiday or staycation

Spa experiences can be a wonderful way to make space for that kind of self-care. With that in mind, here are some of our favourite spa experiences for burnout and wellbeing:

Forest bathing

A guided walk that incorporates meditation, draws on the healing powers of nature and encourages you to slow down mind, body and soul, Forest Bathing combines all of the best features of wellness and spas in beautiful environments.

Which spa to visit: Spread Eagle Hotel and Spa

Sound baths

Working on vibrations, sound baths work on the principle that everything around us and within us , whether we hear it or not, is on a vibration. The idea is that when our natural vibrations get out of tune, it is the root of illness, so sound baths take that idea and use music for healing with instruments such as Tibetan singing bowls.

Which spa to visit: InterContinental London Park Lane

Floatation tanks

Floatation tanks, sometimes known as Isopods allow you to lay (float) in a tank of water. The water might contain Epsom salts or allow you to select different coloured lighting to suit your mood, and play music. The idea is to feel weightless and for your mind to finally stop chattering and be still.

Which spa to visit: Ockenden Manor