Throughout my 20’s and into my early 30’s, I lived with a sense of constant fatigue, as if my energy levels were always hovering around 1%. This wasn't just a fleeting tiredness; it was a deep exhaustion that persisted. I found myself declining many social invitations, preferring the solitude that would allow me to rest. I vividly recall being at a family friend's wedding on a Sunday evening, the festivities in full swing, yet all I could think about was how desperately I wanted to go home to sleep, even though it was only 7:30 PM. I felt so far from the normal life experience someone my age should have been living.
My lack of energy didn’t just burden me physically, but emotionally as well. I was so used to feeling this way, that it almost felt like a part of my identity - and that wasn’t who I wanted to be. Despite not having an official diagnosis, I was living the reality of someone with chronic fatigue.
I started to need regular naps during the afternoons, in order to gain energy for later on in the day. I complained about being tired so often, that I grew tired of my own words. Saying no to social events became a standard response because I simply didn't have the energy to engage. Yet, despite how I felt on the inside, I tried my best to put on a happy face whenever I did have to socialize. This was part of the emotional challenges I frequently dealt with.
My doctor repeatedly assured me that my health was fine and that I simply needed more exercise, but deep down, I knew something was wrong. So, without a clear medical acknowledgment of my health issues, I continued to navigate through life with this invisible condition. I held on to hope for a day when I would finally feel energized again.
For years, I tirelessly looked for answers. I upped my caffeine intake, committed to regular exercise, and ran numerous blood tests. At some point I found myself taking around 15 supplements, some 2 and 3 times a day. I analyzed my hair, and improved my diet. While all of this promised to get me to a better place, I never experienced the results I was after - to simply feel good again.
Everything changed in 2020 when I stumbled upon an online breathwork session. I joined with a fair amount of skepticism, not expecting much of an impact. However, the experience was surprisingly powerful. I felt relaxed but with energy, right after the session. I felt good. I immediately knew I needed to incorporate breathwork into my life and share it with others.
I learned that for years I had been operating in a state of high alert, and my body was tired of being in consistent overdrive. Breathwork, almost accidentally at first, helped me move away from this state by calming my nervous system.
Finding my own path towards healing has reinforced my belief in listening to one's body. When you feel something's not right, despite being told otherwise, it's important to explore other opinions and solutions. Thankfully, my persistence paid off, and I now experience a quality of life I hadn't thought possible.
With regular breathwork and mindful practices to regulate my nervous system, my energy has returned. I no longer rely on daily naps, and my fatigue has significantly decreased. Anxiety doesn't weigh as heavily on me anymore, and I manage stress much better. Sure, I have my off days, but overall, my life has improved dramatically.
Motivated by my experience, I pursued and achieved double certification in breathwork, eager to pass on this transformative practice. Now, as a mindset and manifestation coach, I've created programs to help others find their path to a vibrant and fulfilling life.
If you're feeling stuck, exhausted, or regularly anxious, keep searching. The right practice could unlock new possibilities and bring on genuine wellness.