WS Chronicle

By Judie Holcomb-Pack

Burnout. We know it exists but what do we do about it? Research has shown that it is the #1 reason why employees in the U.S. leave their jobs. Workplace stress costs the U.S. economy an average of $300 billion per year. Parental burnout leaves parents feeling chronically fatigued, often experiencing sleep and concentration problems. In worst cases, burnout can lead to depression, chronic anxiety, and illness. 

And just when women reach the age where they feel they can finally relax a little, a whole new set of stressors crop up: grandchildren arrive with the need to help their children with babysitting while also taking care of elderly parents. Spouses may begin to experience chronic health issues and work becomes more challenging as promotions bring more demands on your time. And menopause? Who’s got time for that?

As the tagline in an old commercial says, “Calgon, take me away!”

Annette Nichols knows a little bit about stress and burnout. As the director of a senior retirement community, she talked to many people about the challenges of everyday living and started to see the need for them to take the time for self-care if they were going to live life to the fullest.

Annette explains, “For over 25 years I have battled with the ups and downs that come along with having type 2 diabetes.  After losing my oldest brother to the illness, I was inspired to start Butterflies’ Touch LLC and dedicate my life to helping educate others on enhancing their quality of life.”

With a passion for helping people maintain their diabetes, in 2019 Annette developed a diabetes app to aid people to monitor their blood sugar levels, access educational videos and nutritious recipes, and manage their conditions.  The app is available on her website at https://butterfliestouch.com/diabetes-app.

Annette then began to focus on the need for women to take time for themselves by getting away for a weekend and sharing time with other women  The result is Butterflies’ Touch Retreat weekends  Women often find themselves juggling numerous responsibilities and expectations. This constant balancing act can lead to stress, fatigue and burnout. The Butterflies’ Touch Retreat is a haven for women who are seeking solace, self-care, and rejuvenation. 

This retreat is designed for the modern, mature woman, 50 years or older. Whether you’re a mother juggling the demands of family, a professional navigating the challenges of your career, or simply a woman on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, this retreat will help you:

*Reconnect with Yourself.  Take a break from your daily routine and rediscover your inner self.

*Find Balance. Restore harmony in your life by exploring ways to manage stress and prioritize self-care.

*Cultivate Connections: Forge meaningful connections with other like-minded women, forming bonds that can last a lifetime.

*Nurture your Mind, Body, and Soul. Participate in enriching workshops, meditation and physical activities to nourish all aspects of your well-being.

*Embrace Empowerment: Gain inspiration, motivation, and tools to help you take charge of your life and achieve your goals.

*Celebrate Womanhood. Share stories, laughter, and experiences with a community of women who understand and support you.

Click on Upcoming Events for information and dates of the 2025 retreats 

Annette is most excited to announce the Blue Butterflies Gala Brunch and Awards on Saturday, Nov. 23, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 8017 North Point Blvd.in Winston-Salem. The event will include the smooth jazz of DJ Ceelo’s Music Service, delicious food by Lady D Catering Service, and photos by Shot To The Head Photography. This afternoon promises to be a mini-retreat that will feature the comedy of Chinnita Morris, and more. All proceeds from the Gala will go to underwrite some of the costs of the 2025 ladies retreat.

Butterflies’ Touch offers a variety of wellness programs tailored to meet the unique needs of their clients. Their programs include managing overall health and wellness. For more information about the Blue Butterflies Gala Brunch, upcoming retreats, and other programs and services they offer, please visit. www.butterfliestouch.com.