When burnout hits, nature resets.

(and throws me in the river).

I didn’t take my own advice. I’d somehow been slogging out in front of a computer for days on end, early mornings and late nights, completely draining my battery.

I was getting short with people around me. Brain fog from too much screen time. Frustration set in. Followed by the insidious self-doubt creep.

I realized, I’d not left my laptop or phone’s side for long over a week. I’d not done any of the the things I promised to keep my mind sharp, inspiration levels high, mental health charged - which is simply to get outside during my ‘sloggy’ hours of the day.

So I took Tuesday off, hauled the horses out to Ventura with a friend, and we took them swimming. I ended up sliding off the back of my trusty steed, got completely swallowed up in the river, and rode then drove home drenched head to toe.

I laughed until my belly hurt. My eye twitch from screen time went away. I forgot about all the notifications, pitches, newsletters, CRM, e-comm, freelancers, retreat planning, meetings and everything I need to get back to.

And on my soggy drive home, I had completely recharged my battery and came back to ‘the real world’ with a motivated spirit, a smile on my face, and probably being much more enjoyable to be around. That’s all it took. A half day away in nature, around animals, frolicking and laughing like a child. I know I need to do better at baking this time into my schedule.

Curating that time for others is why I started Wild Duchess, and I need to practice what I preach more. The goal is always to pair outdoor activity with meaningful conversation and guest voices that help refuel our ‘why,’ as our bodies get to work surrounded by nature.

Where do you go for a quick reset to stop the eye-twitch? I need more ideas that don’t involve me falling in the river!