Reclaiming Balance: How Sleep Transformed Burnout into Resilience
Sleep isn’t about checking out—it’s about showing up
Dr. Anne Marie Morse’s journey through burnout isn’t just a story—it’s a roadmap for anyone feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands. Her candid reflections reveal universal truths about prioritizing self-care in a productivity-obsessed world.
Key Takeaways from Dr. Morse’s Journey
Burnout Sneaks Up When You Least Expect It
During the pandemic, Morse prioritized work over sleep while raising two young children, leading to emotional and physical depletion. Her wake-up call came during a trip to Rome: “I felt a weight lift—like I could breathe again. That’s when I realized I’d been running on fumes.”Sleep as a Non-Negotiable Reset Button
Morse reframes sleep as active wellness maintenance: “Deprioritizing sleep means accepting a lesser version of yourself. It’s not passive—it’s how your brain processes stress.”Practical Wisdom for Travelers
• Hotel hacks: Use pant hanger clips to blackout curtains, pack sleep masks with speakers, and avoid screens in bed.• Time zone tricks: Adjust meal times to your destination’s schedule to combat jet lag.
The Power of Self-Awareness
Morse emphasizes catching burnout patterns early: “At a TED conference, I realized I was skipping workouts to work. That’s the slippery slope.”
Hear Dr. Morse’s full conversation about burnout recovery and sleep science on the Sleep Is My Waking Passion podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Youtube.
Final Thought
“Sleep isn’t about checking out—it’s about showing up,” Morse reminds us. Whether navigating parenting, work, or travel, her message sticks: true resilience starts with honoring rest.
For more sleep tips, advice, and solutions, sign up for my monthly newsletter below, where we help you get the rest you deserve!
