Joanne is a former marketing executive turned yoga teacher and wellness educator. In her early 30’s Jo transitioned from the corporate to wellness sector based on the positive impact of lifestyle changes, yoga and meditation in helping her overcome chronic stress.
Over her career Jo has worked across the wellness, not-for-profit, media and education sectors with a range of reputed businesses and organisations including the multi-award-winning Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Raindrum Luxury Private Rehab, Southern Cross University, The Australian Women's Weekly, BBC Worldwide and Goldman Sachs.
Jo’s lasting interest in wellbeing has taken her to more than 35 countries over the last 30 years. Notably, Jo has lived and studied in India for 4 years, holds a Diploma in Yoga and Post Graduate Diploma in Indian Philosophy & Religion from BHU University in Varanasi and spent 2+ years on retreat herself in India, Nepal, Italy and Australia.
Jo has taught and presented on the topic of yoga, mindfulness and wellbeing in a range of contexts including health retreats, corporate programs, community workshops and private coaching, and donated much of her time over the years as an activist for children’s rights.
The professional and life experience Jo offers today as a consultant sets her apart as a unique and valuable asset in the wellness hospitality sector. Jo continues to be inspired by the opportunity to share her knowledge with businesses around the world for the benefit of people of all ages and walks of life in preventing burnout and stress-related illness.
ABOUT JOANNE
ABOUT BURNOUT
For many, life these days is very busy and increasingly challenging. Young people and adults alike today are required to process more information, live at a faster pace, filter constant distraction and remain positive in the face of a barrage of negative news. Add to this overstimulation of the mind due to too much time on digital devices, the increased cost of living and level of adaptation required in a fast changing world, it’s no wonder an increasing number of people are facing challenges when it comes to their mental, physical and emotional wellbeing.
According to the World Health Organisation, stress has been classified as the health epidemic of the 21st Century. The trend index report published in September 2022 revealed that 62% of Australian workers reported being burned out, compared to the global average of 48% of employees.
Having worked in health retreats for many years, I have met hundreds of people at breaking point. The primary causes of burnout is excessive work pressure and negative interpersonal interactions that have accumulated over time, leaving people unable to handle daily life well, and resulting in chronic emotional stress. Without a burnout mitigation strategy disengagement from work and strained relationships can become an issue. If left unaddressed, prolonged stress and burnout can lead to serious health issues, or be fatal.
Burnout Symptoms:
Emotional exhaustion: loss of energy, fatigue, mood swings, cynicism, inefficacy
Depersonalisation: sense of alienation from others and feelings of indifference
Low self-esteem: feelings of inadequacy, negativity, lack of motivation
Signs of Burnout:
Irregular sleep patterns
Weight gain or loss
Muscle pain
Decreased immunity
Excessive stress
Risk of addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Type 2 Diabetes
Risk of illness
“Meditation brings wisdom; lack of meditation leaves ignorance. Know well what leads you forward and what holds you back, and choose the path that leads to wisdom.”
— The Buddha, born Siddhartha Guatama (c. 563 BCE or 480 BCE)