I’m focusing a lot of energy lately in the burnout prevention space. It’s an area I’ve always incorporated into my coaching for endurance athletes, as athletes are often hard-drivers with a tendency to go full (over)speed in several areas of life at once. Despite our collective knowledge on burnout prevention and so much technology available to “make life easier,” I see more and more cases of at-the-limit stress and life-impacting burnout than ever before, in athletes and non-athletes alike.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as a foundation, I see so much value in movement, breath and music. Movement (via endurance sports, fitness, yoga, etc.) has been a positive force in my life for two decades, and music for twice that long. I’ve never been a champion in either, and that’s the point … you don’t have to be to reap the benefits. Intention is more important than talent.

And breath is a game-changer, as even just a few minutes of deep breathing each day can have a major impact on your nervous system, sense of calm, and focus.

That’s your friendly reminder for April … get outside and move a little more often, breath deeply daily, and dust off or buy a musical instrument to play every now and then. And if you’re already doing all of that, then maybe encourage a friend to do the same.