I keep seeing the same quote over and over online. I have yet to see the original author of this quote, if you know their name please contact me so I can credit them. This quote hit me hard, it reads "If you don't choose a day to rest, your body will choose it for you." The first time I read this quote, it hit me that we should all slow down a bit. The 50th time I read it, I was in the middle of my body choosing rest days for me.
If you know me, or if you've been around for a while, you know I live with chronic pain. What you may not know is I was a cheerleader for three years. I loved being a cheerleader, I loved the stunts we performed. My coach was amazing and ambitious, she clearly thought highly of our abilities. One of the stunts we practiced ended in two injuries, the flyer I caught as she came down to earth, and me. This injury is pretty old and doesn't bother me too much. Honestly I thought the worst was over by now, it's been well over a decade. After around a month of repairs in my home, I learned differently. My body chose rest I have been ignoring for a while. I spent the next month with the worst mobility of my life; hunched and barely able to walk I was staring down some scary options.
I love science and all the advancements made possible by it. I love modern medicine and have a deep respect for all those who have dedicated their lives (and wallets) to that practice. I do not love needing to go see a doctor. It's like pulling teeth to get me to go in for anything, and with pain like what I was feeling I was terrified they'd put me on pain pills. I understand why they may be necessary, but I rarely take Ibuprofen in my daily life. I was more terrified of the potential for surgery. At this crossroads of decisions, between a life barely walking and all the things going to a doctor represents for me, I chose what might be a path less traveled.
I spent three days learning. I learned what muscles support the back. I learned what movements to encourage and avoid. I learned how to develop a training schedule. I made sure I understood the ins and outs of this path. I need you to understand this, dear reader. I am in no way a doctor of any kind and I fully understand the risks associated with my choice. I do have a safety plan in place should anything go wrong.
After learning what I could, I put it all together using equipment from a January sale some years ago. I have been strengthening my muscles to better support my back. In the process, I have been teaching myself rest. True rest, not just stopping for an undetermined amount of time. Self care is so important, and I know how impossible it can feel for so many people.
On this new path, I've discovered something I thought unachievable. At least for me. I found I could keep going after training sessions. I could stick to a routine of sorts and keep going. I could live through a day and come out the other side not feeling worthless. And I am thrilled at the all potential.
Dear reader, please. Even if it is just 5 minutes, take time for yourself. You deserve a life of peace and comfort.
Peace to you,
Willow R
Owner, Rooted in my Strength
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