Why am I so tired?

Inspired by Dr Daniel Stickler’s article: “You Are Not Fine: The Post‑2020 Physiological Shift” (Substack).

Over the past few years, I’ve heard the same quiet confession from so many people:

“I just don’t feel like myself anymore.”

More fatigue. More brain fog. More irritability. Less resilience. A nervous system that feels either overstimulated or completely flat. And for many, no clear explanation.

Dr Daniel Stickler’s recent article, “You Are Not Fine: The Post‑2020 Physiological Shift,” puts words to what so many have been experiencing. He explains that the last few years created a massive physiological load on the human body — chronic stress, disrupted routines, reduced social connection, sleep disturbances, and constant uncertainty.

This wasn’t a short event. It was a multi‑year stressor, and our biology is still recalibrating.

What this looks like in real life

• Tired even after a full night’s sleep

• Trouble focusing or remembering

• Feeling overwhelmed more easily

• Mood swings or emotional flatness

• Digestive changes

• Slower recovery from exercise or illness

These aren’t character flaws. They’re normal physiological responses to prolonged stress.

What helps the body reset

Recovery doesn’t come from pushing harder — it comes from supporting the basics:

• Gentle, regular movement (but don't push it).

• Consistent sleep rhythms

• Real social connection

• Time in nature

• Reducing overstimulation (especially screens)

• Nervous system regulation practices (breathing, grounding, slow exhale work)

The message is simple and compassionate:

You’re not broken. Your body is adapting — and with the right support, it can recover.

If you’d like a deeper dive, the original article is here: “You Are Not Fine: The Post‑2020 Physiological Shift” by Dr Daniel Stickler (Substack).

At Back In Harmony we use a number of practises to address this very situation. The Integral Light Process is especially helpful. The Integral Light Process