Diwali Burnout: How I Swapped FOMO for Inner Glow

As the Diwali lights twinkle and cast their glow, I find myself in an unexpected place—resting in bed, caught in a cycle of fatigue that has sidelined me from my favourite time of year. The festival that usually fills my heart with joy, energy, and togetherness looks different this time. Since October, I’ve felt more like a spectator in my own life, watching the celebrations from afar and missing the warmth and connection that Diwali usually brings.

One evening, as my family prepared for the festivities, the aroma of homemade sweets filled the air, the crackle of oil sizzling on the stove mixing with my daughter Ira’s giggles. Lying in bed, I could hear it all—the joyful buzz, the laughter—but felt too drained to join in. It was a bittersweet moment, reminding me of how much I was missing—not only the celebrations but the chance to be present with my loved ones.

A Moment of Truth: Seeing Through My Daughter’s Eyes

Amid my reflections, my daughter Ira said something that hit me unexpectedly: “Mumma, this Diwali feels slow and boring. We didn’t do as much as we always do.” Her words were like a gentle mirror, reflecting my own weariness back at me. I’d been trying to put on a brave face, to still be the heart of our celebrations, but my energy had been drained long before the festivities even began.

I’d been unwell much of 2024, and all Ira had seen was a mum who was either working or resting. Her words made me realise that my struggle to carry on was affecting not only my health but also the joy and memories we were creating together. It was a wake-up call to re-evaluate my approach to self-care and to accept that, sometimes, rest is what we need most.

Realizing the Need for Balance and Boundaries

This year, my immune system forced me to confront a deeper truth: I had been ignoring my own limits. My mentor, Sidz, often says that if we see something repeated in our clients, it’s likely a mirror of what’s happening in us. As I guided clients through exhaustion and burnout, I began to realize I was bypassing those very boundaries myself.

How could I inspire others to set boundaries and prioritise their health if I wasn’t doing the same? This Diwali, I had to ask myself: Was I practising what I advocated? If self-care isn’t at the core of how I live, how can I expect it to resonate with my family or clients?

Practical Steps for Realignment

Diwali, with its emphasis on light, reflection, and renewal, became the perfect moment to reset my approach to self-care. Here are some steps I’ve taken that may also help you realign with your well-being:

1. Set Boundaries Without Guilt
   This season, I learned the value of gently saying no, even to well-loved traditions. Saying no to just one extra gathering gave me the energy to say yes to quiet, meaningful moments with family. Sometimes, boundaries are the most generous choice we can make.

2. Embrace Rest as an Essential Practice
   This Diwali, I embraced rest, allowing myself to rejuvenate without guilt. It reminded me that we don’t need to “earn” rest—it’s a right that sustains our health and happiness.

3. Mindfulness Moments
   I began taking mini-breaks to check in with myself. Just a few minutes of deep breathing or jotting down my feelings became my anchor during the festivities, helping me stay present and aware of my needs.

4. Reconnect with Loved Ones
   Sharing my struggles, even with close friends and family, helped lighten the load. Vulnerability brings connection, and this openness allowed me to feel supported and reminded me that I wasn’t alone.

5. Reflect on Core Values
   Taking time each day to think about what truly matters—like connection and presence—helped me refocus on what I want to experience during the holiday season and beyond.

6. Create New Traditions That Honor Your Health
   This year, we adapted our holiday traditions. Instead of the usual hustle, we opted for simpler, quieter celebrations that honoured where I am right now. It was a reminder that celebrations don’t have to be grand to be meaningful.

Moving Forward with Intention: Keeping the Festive Spirit Alive

As Diwali comes to a close and we return to the hustle and bustle of daily life, I’m reminded of the importance of realignment. The joy of the festive season should leave us feeling refreshed and fulfilled, not depleted. In a world that celebrates endless productivity, we often risk turning special times into sources of fatigue rather than joy. By staying balanced and mindful, we can preserve the spirit of celebration without burning out.

 Embrace Reflection and Growth

This Diwali has been an invaluable gift of reflection and growth, even if it didn’t look the way I’d planned. I’ve realized that prioritizing self-care isn’t only necessary for myself but also for those I love. As I reflect on the season, I encourage you to join me in this journey of self-discovery. Take a moment to reflect on your own well-being: Are you living in alignment with your values? Are you giving yourself permission to pause and reset?

As we celebrate the festival of lights, let’s carry its essence into our everyday lives. I invite you to take a moment for self-reflection: How have you been caring for yourself? What boundaries can you set to protect your energy? When we nurture ourselves, we create space for genuine connection and joy.

Together in Self-Care

In the spirit of community, let’s share our journeys of self-care and realignment. How has this season prompted you to reflect on your own needs and boundaries? Let’s support one another in embracing our humanness and honouring our health. When we prioritize self-care, we create a ripple effect that reaches every aspect of our lives and every person we love.

Love and Light,

Saiyami J

PS: Self-care is not an indulgence—it’s a necessity. As we move forward, let’s remember that by nurturing ourselves, we can truly light up the lives around us.