Reclaiming your GLOW!
Easing back into fitness during recovery.
Injuries seem like the end of the world, especially when we feel like we were doing so well with our fitness routines. Let’s face it, getting hurt in any capacity sucks. But here at GLOW Fitness, we think it’s important to understand what happens to us after an injury so we can be better equipped to show up for ourselves. And of course, we want to be better at showing up for other people in our community! The toughest battles are often the silent ones.
After sprained ankles, broken bones, or even recovering after a surgery, the advice we usually receive is to REST. REST. REST. Should be easy enough, but how do we put a part of ourselves to rest that’s so integral to our well-being? And then we’re expected to not go crazy??? Losing something you’re so passionate about is one hard funk to get out of. According to the Sports Science Institute, some of these emotional responses include sadness, isolation, irritation, lack of motivation, anger, frustration, changes in appetite, and sleep disturbance – all of which can snowball into more serious issues. So how do we get back on track?
It’s important to consult with a qualified medical professional before re-engaging in any physical activity. They might be able to provide exercises that are suitable with your recovery plan or offer guidance on a gradual return to your normal fitness routine. It’ll also be important to set realistic and achievable goals. Maybe you lost some flexibility? Strength? Endurance? It’ll be important to outline what you want to attain to help you stay motivated (and supported!). Once again, always defer to a medical professional before taking any action, but here are some things we think you can do at GLOW that won’t get you in trouble!
💖 Sound Healing – When I first took sound healing, I was amazed at how much of an exercise it was to turn my brain off and forget about all my problems in the outside world. Learning to not only focus, but simply accepting the arrival and departure of random fleeting thoughts was powerful. For 1 hour, I was guided into a kind of serenity basking in the frequencies of tonal sounds. Fitness is more than a physical activity, which is why sound healing can be a great part of your recovery journey!
💖 Yoga (YoGLOW) – Knock knock… Who’s there? Yo. Yo who? Yo mama YoGLOW! Sometimes during yoga I bend in ways that seem unnatural, but every instructor mentions that if I need to take child’s pose or lay on my back for the entire hour then I am totally welcome to do so. Enjoying the music. Grounding myself to the mat. Opening my hips and gradually working on my flexibility over time. To me, yoga is a time to reconnect with my body and its sensations, which is why I think it could be a great option for recovery.
💖 Indoor Cycle – I know what you might be thinking, but hear me out hear me out! Yes cycle is one of the most fun and intense shows at the GLOW rodeo, but who doesn’t like to vibe out? Grab your bike in the back (or front if you’re bold!), enjoy the music, and ride slow for the entire class just to get yourself moving and grooving.
💖 Events – You are not alone! Recovery can be an isolated journey and sometimes it’s hard to let loose and feel like yourself again. Here at GLOW, we believe community is an integral part of wellness so we host various low-pressure events and I promise we don’t bite! Unless…
As with everything fitness, it is really important to listen to your body. If you’re easing back into exercising again, take note before and after a workout to determine if you need to dial it back a bit. Recovery requires a lot of patience, commitment, and a mindful approach. And you can always rely on the support of your GLOW fam in Raleigh to help you rebuild your strength and resilience (physical AND mental)! Every step you take toward a better you is something to be proud of, and lastly, if you need a reminder to drink water here it is! Hydrate the body and make sure to hydrate your soul. Ready? Set. GLOW!
Reflection: How do you think you can check on someone who may seem like they’re not having a good time while exercising?
xoxo, GLOW Girl 💖
