Understanding Burnout Through a Holistic Lens with Kathy Ozakovic
Burnout is no longer just a buzzword—it’s an epidemic. In a recent episode of me&my health up with Anthony Hartcher, holistic health expert Kathy Ozakovic reframes how we define and treat burnout. Going beyond the traditional model of overload, neglect, and being under-challenged, Kathy introduces a fourth dimension: the spiritual component.
Through this expanded framework, she invites us to see burnout not only as a physical or emotional collapse but also as an energetic disconnection from purpose, presence, and self.
Watch the full video here:
The Four-Component Burnout Model
Traditionally, burnout is categorized into three types:
- Overload – working too hard with no time to recover
- Neglect – lack of support or recognition
- Under-challenged – unfulfilled and bored
Kathy’s addition—the Spiritual Burnout—brings a missing piece to the puzzle. This form manifests through:
- ● Loss of passion and purpose
- ● Codependency and people-pleasing
- ● Energetic depletion from upholding social masks
- ● A sense of disconnection from one’s inner truth
Elemental Rejuvenation: A Return to Spirit
Kathy introduces a beautiful, earth-rooted technique: Elemental Purification. She connects the five classical elements to different forms of spiritual healing:
- ● Water – Ocean swims, cleansing baths
- ● Air – Breathwork and fresh air walks
- ● Fire – Fire ceremonies or candle meditations
- ● Earth – Grounding through barefoot walks or gardening
- ● Ether – Sound healing, stillness, and space
Each element acts as a mirror for self-reflection and a medium for spiritual recharging.
Breathwork & Brain Waves: The Science of Slowing Down
One of the most powerful takeaways was Kathy’s explanation of the breath-brainwave connection. She notes that slowing our breath moves us from the active beta state to the restorative alpha state, allowing the mind to clear and the body to heal.
This shift is crucial because healing only happens in the parasympathetic nervous system—our “rest and digest” mode. And in a world that rewards constant “doing,” we often live in a functional freeze, operating on autopilot and suppressing our stress responses.
Strategic Retreating: Preventative Wellness, Not Crisis Recovery
Kathy compares burnout prevention to Formula 1 pit stops or athletic off-seasons. Strategic retreats—even a long weekend every 6 weeks—act as scheduled tune-ups for the nervous system.
Prevention is about learning to rest before your body forces you to.
The Physiology of Burnout
Kathy also touches on how burnout shows up in the body:
- ● Digestive issues
- ● Infertility
- ● Thyroid dysfunction
- ● Immune suppression
- ● Dopamine depletion
Understanding these signals allows us to listen when the body whispers, not wait until it screams.
Mindset Reframes & Emotional Hygiene
One of the most empowering mindset shifts Kathy shares is swapping out “I have to” for “I get to.” This language shift isn’t just semantics—it’s a neural reprogramming that reclaims agency.
She also discusses emotional processing, emphasising that when fully felt, emotions naturally dissipate within 90 seconds. Learning to process emotions instead of repressing them is a cornerstone of healing.
Purpose, Passion & Radical Responsibility
At the heart of recovery is purpose. Kathy reminds us: “The only burnout you’ll experience when you’re aligned with purpose is physical, not mental.” She urges listeners to take radical responsibility—acknowledging where they’ve allowed misalignment and choosing to rewrite the story.
Conclusion: Know Thyself to Heal Thyself
Burnout is not just a productivity issue—it’s a disconnection issue. As Kathy beautifully articulates, the path to healing begins with self-awareness, intentional rest, and reconnection with the self.
Whether it’s taking a sea bath, grounding in the soil, slowing your breath, or simply rewriting your internal dialogue—each action is a declaration: “I choose to return to myself.”
Embrace a Holistic Approach with me&my wellness
At me&my wellness, we advocate for a holistic approach to health that harmonises mind, body, and spirit. Our holistic health coaching aims to address challenges, promoting healing on emotional and physical levels. We provide personalised strategies such as stress management, emotional healing, and guidance in balanced nutrition and lifestyle adjustments.
By focusing on a comprehensive approach, we empower you to reclaim your health and well being. Ready to transform your wellness journey? Book a 15-minute FREE consultation with us today and take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life.