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!