About this episode

Erin Vandeven discusses the importance of 'soft work' in healing from burnout and reclaiming joy.

This episode was originally published in June of 2025 In this heartfelt episode of Medium Lady Talks, Erin shares a deeply personal talk on reclaiming “soft work” as a vital part of healing. Inspired by a moment with her therapist and delivered originally at the Say It Like You Claimed It event with Jam Gamble, this message is a reminder that you can’t recover from burnout by doing more hard work. Instead, you need softness. 🪷 Erin breaks down: What “soft work” is and why it matters (think: joy, rest, nature, play) Why soft work activates the vagus nerve and heals the nervous system The limiting beliefs that make rest feel unearned or frivolous The science behind why kindness and pleasure help you recover How to reprogram your brain to notice joy again Whether you’re exhausted from doing everything “right” or just need a moment to feel seen, this episode will help you soften into the truth: you are not broken. You’re just overdue for joy. 📚 Mentioned in this episode: Sacred Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith Women Who Work Too Much by Tamu Thomas Reclaim Yourself by Dr. Thema Bryant What It Takes to Heal by Prentis Hemphill Fiction from Kennedy Ryan, Tia Williams, Kiley Reid, and…

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