Feeling Stressed? You Might Be Overstretched

Over the past 21 years of running Essence of Living, I’ve learned that stress doesn’t always come from what’s happening around us — often, it comes from being overstretched in too many directions.

For me, stress tends to surface when I’ve taken on more than I can realistically hold. And as a mother, business owner, teacher, and woman deeply committed to conscious living — that’s a dance I know intimate

The Pressure of Unrealistic Expectations

I recently caught myself falling into that pattern again — stretching too far, saying yes to too much, and quietly placing expectations on myself that no one else had asked for.

As I reflected, I realised my stress was self-inflicted. It wasn’t coming from outside obligations, but from my internal drive to achieve certain goals within an unrealistic timeframe. Sound familiar?

With my kids immersed in extracurricular activities and my husband kicking major career goals, I realised — someone has to be the glue holding things together at home. And right now, that’s me.

This doesn’t mean I’m giving up on my dreams. But it does mean I’m choosing to move at a pace that’s sustainable, spacious, and in alignment with my values.

You Can Do It All — Just Not All At Once

There’s a quote I come back to often:

“You can do everything — just not all at once.”

It reminds me that it’s okay to honour the season I’m in. When I stepped away from running my physical studio, it was a conscious decision — a way to be more present with my children. And yet, the desire to continue growing Essence of Living and creating new offerings still lives within me. 

So instead of silencing that desire, I’m simply choosing to hold it more gently.

Kaizen, the Art of Slow Growth

One of the guiding principles I live by is Kaizen — a Japanese philosophy meaning continuous improvement through small, consistent steps.

But even Kaizen invites us to slow down. The work we do in the wellness world — whether it’s yoga, Pilates, teaching, or running a heart-led business — is not a sprint. It’s a marathon.

Essence of Living has been evolving for over 21 years, and I hope to keep sharing, growing, and contributing for at least another 21. There’s no rush. There’s no finish line. I am already exactly where I’m meant to be.

From Stress to Spaciousness: A Self-Check

One of my teachers once said that even if you reach self-realisation, there’s no guarantee you’ll stay in that state. Awareness is a practice. Presence is a practice. So is alignment.

If you’re feeling stressed right now, I invite you to pause and reflect:

• Are you truly overwhelmed — or simply overcommitted?

• What expectations are you placing on yourself that could be softened?

• What could you release — physically, emotionally, or mentally — to create more space?

Final Thought

Stress is a signal. Not a sign of failure, but a gentle nudge to slow down and realign.

Whether you’re a yoga teacher, wellness entrepreneur, or someone navigating multiple roles — know that it’s okay to take your time. Your growth doesn’t need to be rushed. You’re allowed to rest, reassess, and move forward in your own time.

You are exactly where you’re meant to be.