Denver Burnout: Are Altitude Workouts Burning Your Brain?
By Franklin Everett ShawDenver: The Mile High Burnout and How to Fight Back
The crisp mountain air, the stunning views, the booming tech scene – Denver sells a dream. But for many Denverites, that dream is fueled by a constant hustle, a relentless pursuit of outdoor adventure, and a work culture that often blurs the lines between passion and exhaustion. This creates a perfect storm for burnout, a particularly insidious beast that thrives in the thin air of the Rockies.
Burnout isn’t just feeling tired. It’s a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress.
Denver’s unique environment exacerbates this. The altitude, while offering breathtaking vistas, places additional stress on the body.
Altitude sickness is well-known, but the subtle, chronic effects of living at 5,280 feet (or higher in the surrounding suburbs) are often overlooked. Lower oxygen levels impact cognitive function, making it harder to concentrate, remember things, and make decisions.
Combine this with demanding jobs in industries like tech, aerospace, and energy, and you have a recipe for cognitive overload.
Many Denver residents are drawn to the city for its outdoor lifestyle. Hiking, biking, skiing – these activities are integral to the Denver identity.
However, the pressure to constantly “do” and “explore” can become another source of stress. What was once a source of joy becomes another item on the to-do list, contributing to the feeling of being overwhelmed.
Let’s be clear: pushing yourself physically at altitude is different. Your body needs more time to recover.
Ignoring this can lead to chronic fatigue, decreased performance, and increased susceptibility to illness.
So, how do Denverites combat this unique brand of burnout? It requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both the physical and mental challenges of living at altitude.
First, let’s talk about exercise. Ditch the “no pain, no gain” mentality.
High-intensity workouts every day might work at sea level, but in Denver, they can quickly lead to overtraining and adrenal fatigue.
Instead, focus on altitude-adjusted workouts. This means reducing the intensity and duration of your workouts, especially when you first arrive in Denver or after taking time off.
For example, if you typically run a 5k in 30 minutes at sea level, expect to run it slower in Denver. Don’t push yourself to maintain the same pace.
Listen to your body. If you’re feeling unusually tired or short of breath, slow down or take a break.
Incorporate more low-impact activities like yoga, swimming, or walking. These activities are easier on your joints and cardiovascular system, allowing you to stay active without overstressing your body.
Consider working with a personal trainer who specializes in altitude training. They can help you develop a workout plan that is tailored to your individual needs and fitness level.
Next, let’s address the cognitive challenges of living at altitude. Mindfulness is key.
Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It can help you reduce stress, improve focus, and increase self-awareness.
There are many different ways to practice mindfulness. Meditation is a popular option, but you can also practice mindfulness while walking, eating, or even washing dishes.
Start with just a few minutes of mindfulness each day and gradually increase the amount of time as you become more comfortable with the practice.
Apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided meditations that can be helpful for beginners.
Another powerful tool for combating burnout is cognitive restructuring. This involves identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to stress and anxiety.
For example, if you find yourself thinking, “I have to be perfect,” challenge that thought. Is it really true? What evidence do you have to support that belief?
Replace negative thoughts with more realistic and positive ones. For example, instead of thinking, “I have to be perfect,” try thinking, “I’m doing my best, and that’s good enough.”
This takes practice, but it can be incredibly effective in reducing stress and improving your overall well-being.
Denver’s work culture can be demanding, but it’s important to set boundaries. Learn to say “no” to extra projects or commitments that will overload you.
Prioritize your tasks and focus on the most important ones. Delegate tasks when possible.
Take regular breaks throughout the day to stretch, walk around, or simply clear your head.
Disconnect from work after hours. Turn off your email notifications and resist the urge to check your phone.
Create a dedicated workspace that is separate from your living space. This will help you mentally separate work from home.
Finally, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide you with support and guidance in managing stress and burnout.
Many therapists in Denver specialize in working with clients who are experiencing altitude-related challenges.
Remember, burnout is not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign that you need to make some changes in your life.
By implementing these strategies, Denverites can reclaim their energy, improve their cognitive function, and thrive in the Mile High City. It’s about finding a sustainable rhythm that honors both the ambition and the unique demands of this vibrant, challenging environment.