The Comeback Is Greater Than The Setback
Sometimes life doesn’t always go to plan. We feel like we are on track in so many ways, and then life throws us a curveball. This recently happened to me, and I am in the process of learning how to deal with it. Believe me, the mental and physical blockers that you hit during this time are like nothing I have ever experienced. So I thought I would share how I am overcoming the emotions and setbacks of being injured.
Having a surgery, broken bone, muscle tear or anything else that is going to set you back for at least a few weeks can be difficult to accept. If you were in the habit of going to the gym regularly, walking every day or if you played any kind of sport, the thought of putting that on hold for an extended period of time can be heartbreaking. And if you are anything like me, you really thrive off having routine and structure. However, I decided that instead of dwelling on the things I did not that I needed to put it all into perspective.
Practice gratitude
Although my surgery was painful and my recovery will be long and tiring (looking at about 8 weeks before I can lift weights again), I feel so blessed that I AM recovering and giving my body all the time and healing that it needs. Things could have gone a lot worse, and there are many who are in situations where they may never be able to go back to their old way of working out again. So I feel so fortunate that I am in the process of making a full and healthy recovery.
Over this time I have shifted my energy and focus onto all the things that I do have in my life instead. My beautiful family, my incredible friends, the insanely amazing #LSFbabes community and my business. I could sit here and feel sorry for myself and disappointed in the muscle that I lose each day. Or I can use this unique opportunity to focus on making my business bigger, and better than ever. Use this additional time to keep on educating myself to continue to be one of the best coaches in the world for you girls. I want to take this time to turn a negative situation into something truly phenomenal.
Appreciate your body
Taking time away from the gym has also given me a whole new appreciation for what my body can do, and motivation to do it. Although I can feel a little impatient most days, I am so excited to have my comeback and get into training again. There will be setbacks and I will have lost some strength, however I strength is something that can be built back up! The same can be said about my muscle mass. I have and will continue to lose some of my muscle, as I am not lifting at all. But this time in my life is not for building muscle, it is for letting my body heal. The gym will be there when I am back and ready to rebuild!
Do not be afraid to eat.
Nourish your body with plenty of vitamins and minerals, as you need to recover! An abundance of micronutrients will provide your body with what it needs to repair, however macronutrients are going to give it the energy to do so. By restricting your calories because you are less active you will feel even more tired and lethargic than you likely already do. I have not been worried about my calories, but rather eating when I am hungry because that is my body sending me signals that it needs the fuel. I am prioritising fruits and vegetables, but sometimes I just don’t feel like a big voluminous meal so I will opt for a sandwich or bowl of oats instead which is totally fine. Listen to your body and help it to get back on track.
Get some sunlight
If you are able to walk with your injury, I recommend getting outside for some sunshine. Whether it be a walk around the block, or just sitting in the yard with a book. The fresh air and sunlight will help to improve your mood, help you to relax and spark some positivity. Since I can’t currently go to the gym, I have been focusing on some study instead. Use this time to focus on other goals that you may not have had time for! If you are interested in nutrition, my Nutrition e-Books are packed with educational information and available for you to further your knowledge.
Focus on other goals
The most important thing I want you to take away from this is not to be hard on yourself. This is a time for self-love and positive thoughts. If you see your body changing or miss going to the gym, just accept that you will have the chance to get back into it in the near future.
Focus on what you CAN do now, and how you will come back with a bang!
44 comments
Thank you Lauren for you vulnerability, courage and ability to empower in spite of. I wish you a quick recovery.
I’m a new follower… and started when I decided to embark on a bikini competition fitness and nutrition plan to challenge myself, push myself to another level and truly reach another level within myself. You have been an inspiration!
Thank you!
Alexsandra
Lauren, thank you for sharing this. All that you’ve explain I have felt. I got a injury back in August of 2019. Been to several doctors trying to figure out what is causing my pain in my hip and lower back. Finally, found a great Orthopedic doctor who is ruling out several things. MRI shows a Labrum fraying and some tendonitis. Ive been taking it day by day, it’s been very heartbreaking because I love to work out so much, and I’ve lost so much muscle, all my hard work and gains gone. But I had to dig really deep and find peace in me to over come this, regardless if I can be as powerful as I once was. Thank you for sharing your story with me and know you are not alone. You encourage me everyday, thank you for all your post. Thanks for being the increbile you! WE GOT THIS!
You are a total inspiration beautiful warrior! Sending you my best wishes for a fast recovery!
Your positive attitude shines so bright, you are truly special.
Thank you so much for sharing, I’ve torn the labrum in my shoulder and will be having shoulder stabilisation surgery just after this challenge finishes. I too love my routine and the gym/working out is my “me” time. It’s going to be a struggle during recovery but cant wait til i can build my shoulder back up (my fav body part to train 😆). You’ve truly inspired me to look at this in a positive way so again thank you for sharing x