It’s Time to Look After Me: A Teacher, A Mum, and A Work in Progress

For many years I have been looking after and supporting others... My pupils, my own two children, my family, my colleagues—every day is a cycle of care, encouragement, and responsibility. But somewhere in the middle of all that, I forgot to look after me.

I’m a primary school teacher in my late 30s, a mum of two, and honestly? I’m exhausted. Worn out. Carrying the weight—literally and figuratively—of years of putting myself last. My energy is low, my body feels sluggish, and I’ve finally reached a point where I know something has to change.

But here’s the thing: I didn’t always feel like this. Before teaching, I was a dance teacher—full of energy and strength, enjoying movement.

Movement was my passion. And now? I can barely get through a day without feeling completely drained.

So, I started digging. I did the research, and I finally understand what’s happening to my body.

The Reality Check: My Hormones Are Running the Show

After lots of research (and a long list of symptoms that just made sense), I’ve learned that I’m likely to be estrogen dominant and possibly have high cortisol—a combination that’s been leaving me feeling constantly stressed, exhausted, and stuck in a body that doesn’t feel like my own.

The truth? I have zero energy for dance or high-intensity cardio workouts. And pushing myself to do them when my body is already in survival mode would just make things worse.

So, instead of fighting against what my body needs, I’m listening.

The Plan: Lifting Myself Back Up (Literally)

I don’t need to run marathons or spend hours in the gym. What I do need is to work with my body, not against it. And that means:

1. Lifting Weights and Kettlebells

Instead of forcing myself through exhausting cardio sessions, I’m shifting my focus to strength training—building muscle, burning fat, and supporting my hormones in a way that actually makes sense for me.

2. Managing Stress (Without Just “Relaxing”)

With high cortisol, stress management isn’t as simple as “just take a deep breath.” I need to actively work on lowering stress hormones—whether that’s through better sleep, smarter nutrition, or even saying no more often.

3. Eating to Support My Hormones

No more relying on caffeine, or grabbing whatever’s quickest. I need real food that helps balance my hormones, reduce inflammation, and actually give me energy.

4. Moving in a Way That Feels Good

I love to move—but right now, movement needs to be on my terms. Lifting weights, stretching, walking, or even dancing when I feel up to it—but with no guilt if I don’t.

This Time, It’s About Me—And Maybe You, Too?

I’m not the only teacher, the only mum, the only person feeling this way. And if any of this resonates with you, I want you to know—you’re not alone.

This is my journey back to me. If you’re on a similar path, let’s do it together. Small, meaningful steps. No pressure, no perfection—just a commitment to feeling better.

Let’s start.