After a few days of rest, the pain subsided only slightly.
So I went to my podiatrist, who broke the news: I had astress fracturein my fibula.
My typical routine of running,yoga, andfull-body strength trainingwas out of the question for the foreseeable future.
Valery/Adobe Stock
Still, every injured athlete needs support, and I was no exception.
When exercise breaks happen, the effect can be more wide-ranging than you might expect.
And then all those things are suddenly gone.
Of course, the road to get there isnt always easy.
Realize you dont actuallyhaveto stay positive all the time.
We want the net result of any situation to be positive, right?
But the reality is, were humans, and were supposed to experience a range of emotions.
Start by giving yourself time and permission to feel sad, cheated, frustrated, or any variation thereof.
Folden tells her clients, Its okay to sit in the suck.
Work your way toward acceptance.
Ruffing agrees that no one should expect to feel happy all the time.
Im currently pregnant, and my body cant do the same movements it did when I wasnt.
My new commute means I dont have time for a morning workout anymore.
Assessing your situation objectively, without judgment, can diminish the surrounding emotional turmoil.
From there you’re able to shift your perspective toward an action thats possible, given your circumstances.
Jackson often employs the word prefer to ease the transition.
Instead, Ill take short walks when I have the time and energy.
Or, Id prefer to be running regularly, but Im injured.
Instead, Ill focus on physical therapy exercises.
Focus on what youcando, movement-wise.
But often there are more possibilities for movement than you might imagine.
Though theyre more passive, they still involve moving your body through space and can soothe your nervous system.
Whitney Heins, a running coach and owner ofThe Mother Runners, has also had her share of setbacks.
When shes healthy, Heins loves the feeling of accomplishment and effort running can bring.
But when her body requires rest instead, she leans into gratitude for the tradeoffs.
Ruffing found a similar approach helpful during her recent pregnancy.
Id think, Im just grateful I can give this baby what it needs today, she says.
Expand your mood-boosting toolkit.
This helps them reconnect with positive feelings.
Then experiment with timing the items on your list strategically throughout your day.
Ground yourself in the present.
Simply set an alarm for 60 seconds and focus on yourbreathing, DeLacey recommends.
Create a new routine.
Build a support system.
Above all, keep in mind youre more than a body.
While many injuries and illnesses improve over time, some limitations may linger.
Changes to your body and the way it moves and functions are a normal part of life.
While they can feel frustrating, Folden acknowledges, she encourages a holistic view of health and well-being.
Recognize that your health and who you are is not just based on your body.
Im in a much more positive headspace and just so full of gratitude.