Burnout is becoming more and more common in our fast-paced, high-stress world. It shows up as emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a feeling that you’re just not getting things done. Interestingly, in Daoist tradition, this state of burnout relates to the corporeal soul, or po (魄), which represents our physical aspects and instincts. When we experience burnout, it’s like our po gets hurt. So, what can we do to heal? According to Daoism, we need to nourish the Seven Necessities of po: sleep, diet, hydration, rest, relaxation, intimacy, and play.
Sleep
Let’s start with sleep. Daoist teachings remind us that life has its cycles, and sleep is crucial for recharging our bodies and balancing our energies. Getting enough quality sleep isn’t just about feeling rested—it’s essential for mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall health. Western research backs this up, showing that chronic sleep deprivation can mess with our metabolism, hormones, and even our immune system, increasing the risk of serious conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s (Hirshkowitz et
al., 2015). Aim for 7-9 hours of good sleep each night to help reduce burnout and boost your productivity.
Diet
Next up is diet. We all know that maintaining a healthy diet can be tough when life gets busy. Many of us end up reaching for processed foods that don’t do our bodies any favors. In Daoism, food is seen as a way to cultivate qi, our inner life force. A balanced diet filled with whole, natural foods not only supports our health but also helps keep us grounded. Research in nutritional psychology shows a strong link between our food choices and mental health (Scherf, 2018). Diets rich in whole foods can stabilize blood sugar and improve mood, while processed diets are often tied to increased anxiety and depression
(Jacka et al., 2017). Proper nutrition is vital for fueling our bodies and supporting brain health, making us more resilient against burnout.
Hydration
Let’s not forget hydration! Water is essential for life and symbolizes flexibility and adaptability. Staying hydrated is crucial for everything from digestion to the flow of qi. When we’re dehydrated, we can feel fatigued, experience cognitive decline, and have mood swings, which can make burnout worse (Pross et al., 2016). Since our brains are about 75% water, even mild dehydration can affect concentration and increase irritability (Maughan, 2012). So, make sure to drink enough water daily to keep your mind sharp and reduce burnout risks.
Rest
Rest is another important aspect, and it’s different from sleep. Resting helps address our body’s specific needs, especially after long hours of work or multitasking. Daoist philosophy encourages us to take regular breaks to recharge. Research has shown that taking breaks can boost productivity and creativity (Davis, 2014). Even short breaks can rejuvenate our mental resources, improving our focus and efficiency (Bowers, 2019). Practices like mindfulness and meditation can also aid relaxation and recovery from stress (Kabat-Zinn, 1990).
Relaxation
Speaking of relaxation, it’s crucial for managing stress. Daoist practices like meditation, tai chi, and qigong are excellent for promoting relaxation. But it doesn’t have to be all about formal practices—simple activities like yoga, mindful walking, or enjoying your favorite show can also calm the mind. Techniques like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation can significantly lower stress levels. Studies show that these relaxation practices help reduce cortisol levels and improve emotional regulation (Chittaro & Vianello, 2016), making it easier to cope with challenges and lessen burnout.
Intimacy
Now, let’s talk about intimacy. Emotional and physical closeness is vital for our well-being. Daoism emphasizes the importance of relationships and community, viewing intimacy as a way to share energy and support health. This can be about deepening connections with friends and family, too. Simple gestures like hugs can strengthen those bonds and nourish our po. Quality relationships provide emotional sustenance and can help combat feelings of isolation, which often accompany burnout (Cohen & Wills, 1985).
Play
Last but not least, let’s not underestimate the power of play. Engaging in playful activities is essential for joy and creativity. Daoist teachings encourage us to embrace our inner child, which can reduce stress and foster spontaneity. Whether it’s going for a run, gaming, or indulging in a favorite snack, play is crucial for our overall well-being. Research shows that incorporating play into our daily lives boosts mood and promotes relaxation, helping us counteract work pressures (Fisher, 1992).
Conclusion
In Daoism, the elements of sleep, diet, hydration, rest, relaxation, intimacy, and play are all interconnected and vital for a balanced life. Prioritizing these aspects can lead to better physical health, emotional well-being, and spiritual growth. By harmonizing these elements, we cultivate a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. Combating burnout really does require a holistic approach that focuses on these seven necessities. Each one plays a unique role in our overall well-being, working together to build resilience against modern challenges. So, let’s make it a priority to incorporate these elements into our lives to help mitigate burnout and enhance our quality of life! To help combat burnout in your life and nourish your po, book a session with Nate or Janny today!

References
 Bowers, A. A. (2019). The Role of Breaks in Enhancing Productivity and Focus. Journal of
Occupational Health Psychology.
 Chittaro, L., & Vianello, A. (2016). Relaxation and Stress Management through Mobile
Applications: A Pilot Study. Computers in Human Behavior.
 Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). Stress, Social Support, and the Buffering Hypothesis.
Psychological Bulletin.

 Davis, M. (2014). The Power of Breaks: Enhancing Creativity and Productivity in the Workplace.
Journal of Business Psychology.
 Fisher, A. (1992). Play and the Role of Leisure in Human Development. American Journal of Play.
 Hirshkowitz, M., Whiton, K., Albert, S. M., et al. (2015). National Sleep Foundation's Sleep Time
Duration Recommendations: Methodology and Results Summary. Sleep Health.
 Jacka, F. N., et al. (2017). Association of Western and Traditional Diets with Depression and
Anxiety in Women. The British Journal of Psychiatry.
 Kabat-Zinn, J. (1990). Full Catastrophe Living: Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face
Stress, Pain, and Illness. Delacorte.
 Maughan, R. J. (2012). Hydration, Hydration, Hydration: Is It Possible to Drink Too Much? Journal
of Sports Sciences.
 Pross, N., et al. (2016). The Effects of Hydration on Performance and Mood. Journal of Human
Nutrition and Dietetics.
 Scherf, K. (2018). Nutritional Psychology: The Role of Food in Mood and Mental Health. Journal
of Psychological Disorders.

Have you ever experienced a sudden, intense muscle cramp during breathwork? If so, you're not alone—many regular meditators and breathwork practitioners encounter this, a phenomenon commonly known as tetany.
Our bodies can sometimes seem mysterious, and understanding the cause of a muscle cramp may feel like a complex puzzle. However, there are several potential reasons why muscle cramps or tetany can happen during breathwork.
In this article, we’ll explore the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual factors behind tetany in breathwork and discuss ways to ease your practice. Let’s dive in!
What is Tetany in Breathwork?Tetany is essentially another term for muscle cramps. During breathwork, some individuals experience involuntary muscle spasms in various areas of the body—most commonly in the hands, feet, calves, back, or face.
While the word "tetany" may sound concerning, it's a temporary and generally harmless condition. Still, it can be uncomfortable, so it's essential to understand why it occurs and how to prevent it in future sessions.
The Scientific Explanation for Tetany in BreathworkFrom a medical perspective, tetany or cramping is often linked to the parathyroid glands. Common causes include a deficiency in calcium, magnesium, or potassium—electrolytes critical for proper muscle function. These imbalances may result from dietary issues, and they can often be addressed through nutritional changes.
Tetany can also occur due to changes in blood pH levels and respiratory alkalosis, which happens when you breathe too quickly or deeply. If you've never experienced tetany before but encounter it during breathwork, this is likely the cause.
When practicing deep or rapid breathing techniques, your lungs expel carbon dioxide faster than normal, leading to an increase in blood alkalinity. This shift in pH can result in muscle spasms or tetany.
If you encounter tetany during breathwork practices like conscious connected breathing, Rebirthing, or Holotropic breathwork, it's a sign to slow down. A gentler, slower breathing rhythm can help regulate blood pH and reduce tetany’s effects.
Mental and Emotional Triggers for Tetany in BreathworkWhile there are physical causes of tetany, emotional and mental factors also play a role. Anxiety and unresolved emotions can contribute to this phenomenon.
Individuals who struggle with anxiety often have a naturally faster breathing rate. Over time, this can impact overall health and even alter blood pH. Breathwork can help alleviate anxiety, but it's essential to work with an experienced guide to navigate this safely.
In addition, psychosomatic theories suggest that emotions can become trapped in the body. During breathwork, as your body moves into a calmer state, these trapped emotions may surface, triggering physical reactions like tetany. Addressing these unconscious issues as they arise can promote healing and help resolve lingering physical symptoms.
The Spiritual Connection to Tetany in BreathworkEmotionally blocked or stagnant energy can also have spiritual implications. In yoga philosophy, it is believed that energy flows through the nadis, or subtle channels in the body. Sometimes, blockages occur in the form of granthis or knots in this energy system.
Breathwork helps cleanse these subtle energy pathways, but when you hit a deeper knot or blockage, it may manifest as a physical reaction, such as tetany. These knots often stem from long-standing habits or unresolved patterns in our lives.
Breathwork offers an opportunity to go beyond the physical, diving deep into the energetic body to release these blockages and reveal the inner clarity that lies within.
Managing and Overcoming Tetany in BreathworkTetany can have various root causes, and addressing it requires a holistic approach. By exploring the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of the issue, you can begin to heal at all levels.
Next time you experience tetany during breathwork, whether in conscious connected breathing, Rebirthing, or Holotropic breathwork, remember that it’s a normal part of the process. It’s simply an opportunity to go deeper, find balance in the body, and address the unconscious material that’s surfacing.
You don't have to navigate this alone. If you need guidance in managing tetany or want to learn more about breathwork practices, feel free to reach out for support!