If you are sidelined by an illness, injury or surgery, use these strategies to feel better and heal faster.
In April, we recognize National Stress Awareness Month. One of the biggest stressors can be postponing your regular routines while recovering.
If you have ever had an accident and seemed to recover slowly from your injury or surgery, you know how it feels to disconnect with your regular routine. What if that routine was your exercise program? If you’re like me, exercise is more important than most other activities. If it was cut short, how would it make me feel? Frustrated, depressed, self-absorbed…a regular minefield of emotion.
Healing should involve more than just the body, according to Jordan Metzl, a sports medicine physician at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City. Your ability to adjust or regain your “emotional flexibility” can help you get back to your workout routine sooner. That was the case with my husband who, for most of January, suffered from a terrible cold and sinus infection, not to mention the other ugly things that come with feeling stuffed up and run down. Instead of dwelling on what he couldn’t do, he dove into studying for a special religious project and practiced for his upcoming driver’s license renewal test. He also meditated a bit to clear his head and remain positive. I am sure my home cooking also helped him keep his strength up.
If you can’t run – walk. If you can’t ride a bike – take up swimming. If you miss your friends from the gym, maybe have them over for a game of monopoly. Limiting your workout can be a blessing because it can allow you to discover your new self. Look for ways to connect that are out-of-the-box. It is sure to strengthen your spirit.
If you are recovering, click here to see how Lori Michiel Fitness can help get you back to your fitness routine. For more information about the best way to move your body, reduce pain from arthritis or injury, improve balance and more, follow us on Facebook, check out our website wwwLoriMichielFitness.com, email us or simply call us at 818-620-1442 for a consultation. We see SENIOR fitness differently.