Meet Shannon Santerelli-freeman

We recently connected with Shannon Santerelli-freeman and have shared our conversation below.

Shannon, thrilled to have you on the platform as I think our readers can really benefit from your insights and experiences. In particular, we’d love to hear about how you think about burnout, avoiding or overcoming burnout, etc.

My journey with burnout is quite personal and has significantly influenced my career path. Over a decade ago, I experienced a severe burnout that landed me in the hospital due to the side effects of prescribed medications. This period was a wake-up call for me, revealing the profound need for a more holistic approach to well-being.

The turning point came when I discovered Reiki and energetic treatments. While Reiki was the gateway to my spiritual awakening, it was the energetic alignments that truly helped me address the root causes of my burnout. I realized that my drive to constantly overachieve stemmed from deep-seated patterns related to my upbringing. Growing up with a narcissistic parent, I was conditioned to seek love and validation through high performance in sports and academics. This pattern continued into my adult life, fueling my burnout.

Holistic healing practices allowed me to pause and listen to my body, giving my nervous system the space it needed to recover. Through this process, I learned to recognize my intrinsic worth beyond external achievements. Balancing my roles as a single mom and a corporate leader, I began to understand that my value is inherent, not contingent on perpetual productivity.

I’ve come to realize that overcoming burnout isn’t about a final victory; it’s an ongoing practice. There are moments when I catch myself feeling guilty for taking a break or not being as productive as I ‘should’ be. In those instances, I’ve learned to use techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness to center myself. Allowing myself to rest, even if it means taking a moment to enjoy the sun on my face, has become an essential part of maintaining my well-being.

Starting my business was a direct outcome of this journey. It reflects my commitment to creating a balanced, holistic approach to life and work, not just for myself but for others as well. My personal experience with burnout has profoundly shaped how I approach challenges and support others in their own paths to wellness.”

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

My move to Nashville was a transformative period, sparking a deep journey of self-reflection and healing. Through practices like Reiki and crystal healing, I was able to confront and heal from generational trauma, rediscovering a profound sense of authenticity and self-worth. This journey taught me the importance of seeking validation from within and embracing self-love and acceptance.

Professionally, I’m dedicated to helping women address and prevent burnout, particularly within the corporate sphere. My 90-day program, Balancing Brilliance, offers a holistic and personalized approach to managing burnout. In this program, I work one-on-one with women to identify early signs of burnout and take proactive measures. We shift away from conventional metrics of success, instead focusing on harnessing natural healing abilities and deepening their understanding of their body’s energy system. The program includes energetic attunement sessions that help high-achieving women connect with their inner power, promoting self-discovery and growth beyond traditional career boundaries. It also emphasizes cultivating self-love and acceptance to empower women to step confidently into their personal and professional lives.

I believe that true healing comes from those who have walked a similar path. While there are many healers and modalities available, I’ve found that the most impactful work comes from individuals who have personally navigated these challenges. This isn’t just about new-age practices; it’s about applying ancient wisdom in ways that resonate with today’s world. One of my core beliefs is that holistic healing and enjoying earthly pleasures and a corporate career can coexist harmoniously. A powerful teacher once said that the greatest tool a shaman has today is their iPhone, and I firmly believe in blending spiritual insights with modern pleasure and technology to enhance our lives.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that had the most significant impact on my journey are:

Understanding the True Measure of Self-Worth: Realizing that material markers of success do not define one’s worth or happiness was a profound lesson. I spent too much time focusing on external appearances and societal expectations rather than on my own happiness. This trait, learned from a narcissistic parent, was particularly challenging to unlearn. For those early in their journey, it’s crucial to recognize that true fulfillment comes from within, not from external validation. Focus on self-awareness and inner happiness rather than societal benchmarks.

Commitment to Holistic Living: Embracing holistic practices required deep internal work, which is often difficult and met with resistance. I initially resisted my spiritual awakening, but it was an essential part of my growth. This journey took years, but with guidance from trained practitioners, it’s possible to navigate these challenges more effectively and in a shorter timeframe. For those beginning this journey, understanding that holistic living involves ongoing personal work is important. Seek support and guidance to streamline the process and avoid prolonged struggle.

Embracing Continuous Learning and Evolution: One of the most impactful realizations was that personal and professional growth is a continuous journey. Challenges and lessons that seemed mastered can reappear in new forms, providing opportunities for further evolution. This ongoing learning process expands how and who I work with, allowing for deeper connections and broader perspectives. For those starting out, maintaining a mindset of curiosity and openness to continual learning can lead to greater personal and professional growth.

Advice for those early in their journey:

Focus on Internal Fulfillment: Prioritize your own happiness and self-worth over external achievements. Cultivate self-awareness and understand that true fulfillment comes from within, not from material success or societal validation.

Engage in Holistic Practices with Patience: Embrace holistic living as a journey that requires patience and internal work. Seek guidance from experienced practitioners to navigate this path effectively and avoid unnecessary delays.

Adopt a Mindset of Continuous Growth: Embrace the idea that learning and growth are ongoing processes. Be open to facing new challenges and evolving continuously, as this will enhance both personal and professional aspects of your life.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Yes, I am actively seeking to collaborate with individuals and organizations dedicated to transforming the burnout culture prevalent in our society, particularly among women in corporate roles and mothers. My focus is on raising awareness about the impact of burnout and advocating for a holistic approach to regain balance and end burnout. This approach combines ancient wisdom with practical solutions for managing stress and enhancing well-being, distinguishing itself from the more theatrical aspects sometimes seen in the modern spiritual community.

I am especially interested in partnering with corporate professionals and wellness programs who are committed to reshaping workplace dynamics and creating healthier, more balanced environments. By integrating these time-tested practices with contemporary business strategies, we can foster a supportive culture that prioritizes mental and emotional well-being while driving productivity and success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.modernhippiesoul.com
• Instagram: @modernhippiesoul
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Modern-Hippie-Soul/100088881575429/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-freeman-49aa02149/

Image Credits

pneuma photography