Ms Weaver, what is rushing woman syndrome?
This is not a medical diagnosis. I wanted to describe what I have observed in many of my patients: the biochemical, nutritional and emotional changes that result when a woman is under constant pressure and feels like she has to rush around all the time. The syndrome therefore describes the environment that many women find themselves in today.
How does this relate to mental overload?
The phenomenon of mental load overlaps greatly with this. Both are often based on a deep sense of responsibility, guilt or an inner belief that one must be everything to everyone. Together, mental load and rushing woman syndrome can leave women completely exhausted, both physically and emotionally.
Where do you see the greatest health risks?
When women are under constant stress, they often ignore the subtle or even obvious signals their body is sending them: that it needs rest, nutrients or connection. Over time, this can lead to various physical symptoms such as digestive problems, lack of sleep, exhaustion, anxiety or mood swings.
In the long term, this condition leads to a deficiency in essential nutrients such as B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, zinc and iron. Physical health suffers greatly, and the mind feels anxious or foggy.
What are the effects of chronic stress in women?
Chronic stress signals to the body that your life is in danger. The body does not distinguish between a real threat and a perceived one – for example, whether you are actually in mortal danger or simply feel overwhelmed by an overflowing email inbox.
This stress can trigger a biochemical cascade that inhibits ovulation – and thus also curbs the production of progesterone, one of the most important female fertility hormones. This is because, naturally, the body does not want to risk pregnancy in a situation that it perceives as dangerous.
Will there be further changes?
Yes, progesterone has many other functions. It has a diuretic effect and is a powerful natural anti-anxiety hormone. If levels drop, this can lead to increased anxiety, PMS (premenstrual syndrome), water retention, irregular cycles and sleep problems. Over time, this imbalance can also affect oestrogen levels – via the liver and gut microbiome – and disrupt the ratio between oestrogen and progesterone. This in turn can lead to increased symptoms during the menopause or exacerbate problems such as fibroids and heavy bleeding.
Waking up in the middle of the night and being unable to fall back asleep is often the result of chronic stress.
Are there any specific warning signs that women should look out for?
Yes. If you are constantly tired, no matter how much you sleep, find it harder to concentrate, are more irritable than usual, notice changes in your cycle, suffer from insomnia or feel emotionally numb or overwhelmed – then your body is sending clear signals. It is asking for a break, for change: in your diet, exercise, breathing, thinking, feeling or perception. These signals should be taken seriously.
In your book, you use the term «tired but wired». What exactly do you mean by that?
«Tired but wired» describes the state of being completely exhausted yet unable to switch off. You lie in bed, feeling drained, but your thoughts race incessantly and you cannot find peace. Or you wake up in the middle of the night and simply cannot get back to sleep. This phenomenon is often the result of chronic stress, sensory overload and a nervous system that has been running on adrenaline for too long.
What exactly is the function of the autonomic nervous system?
It consists of two parts: the sympathetic (fight-or-flight mode) and the parasympathetic (rest, digestion and regeneration mode) parts. Chronic stress causes the sympathetic branch to dominate permanently – as if you were constantly pressing the accelerator. The parasympathetic part, which is actually responsible for rest, digestion, reproduction and healing, rarely gets the chance to become active in a state of constant overload.
What changes do you recommend to bring the body back into balance?
Gentle, regular rituals in everyday life can be very helpful: slow, deep breathing into the abdomen, short walks in nature, lying down with your legs elevated, slow, breath-centred movements such as tai chi, or simply spending time away from screens. A relaxing evening routine and fewer stimulants such as caffeine and sugar can also help you return to a regenerative state. Certain medicinal plants – such as ashwagandha (Withania), lemon balm, magnolia or chamomile – can provide additional support.
Women need to realise that their own worth does not depend on how many items they can tick off their to-do list.
Breaks can be a door opener to regaining energy and a sense of self. To do this, however, you first have to admit to yourself that something needs to change.
Ultimately, rushing women will only find true peace when they question what actually drives their inner stress. What thoughts, beliefs, values or behaviour patterns cause this constant pressure? Do they say yes when they mean no? Do they link their self-worth to performance? Are they afraid of disappointing others – or of their rejection? Or are they afraid of no longer being perceived as capable?
What advice would you give to women who know full well that they have reached their limits but still feel they must carry on?
You need to realise that your self-worth does not depend on how many items you tick off your to-do list. Otherwise, you will end up in a dangerous cycle: feelings of guilt, perfectionism and self-doubt are often the real causes of chronic stress in many women. This stress, in turn, exacerbates the symptoms they suffer from.
No matter how healthy your diet and lifestyle may be, if you do not believe deep down that you deserve peace and quiet, or if you are constantly seeking recognition without realising it, your body will remain in stress mode. Questioning such inner beliefs is a key step towards true healing.
