BIOGRAPHY
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-related illness.
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 has donated much of her time over the years as an activist for children’s wellbeing and education rights.
The professional and life experience Jo offers today as an Consultant and Educator 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.
THE BURNOUT BURDEN
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. Having worked in health retreats for more than 20 years, Joanne has met thousands of people at breaking point.
Excessive work pressure is leaving many people unable to handle the demands of daily life effectively. Without a burnout mitigation strategy and sustainable lifestyle chnages, disengagement from work and strained relationships are likely to become an issue. If left unaddressed, prolonged stress and burnout can lead to serious health issues, or be fatal.
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
Burnout Symptoms:
Irregular sleep patterns
Weight gain or loss
Muscle pain
Decreased immunity
Excessive stress
Risk of addiction
Specific Signs of Burnout:
Anxiety
Depression
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Type 2 Diabetes
Risk of illness
