Taking my Own Medicine: Reluctantly Embracing Flexibility
For as long as I can remember, moving my body has been my sanctuary—a place where I find solace, discipline, and the freedom to be my true self. Growing up in an abusive and chaotic household, I sought refuge in athletics, which became my lifeline. Through sports, I discovered structure, discipline, and the unwavering support of my coaches, who became the parental figures and support I needed.
Being an athlete gave me a sense of purpose and confidence. I thrived on routines, discipline, and the unwavering commitment to showing up consistently. My training was my refuge, my way of proving to myself that I could rise above anything. It was where I found stability and comfort. For years, this intensity fueled my passion, and I embraced it with unwavering dedication. I know who I am when I show up for myself and others this way.
But life has a way of reminding us that change is inevitable.
Something I often speak with my clients about and am currently embracing myself. Recently, I have found myself in a position where I am being forced to slow down and reevaluate my approach to my own training. An injury has disallowed my “hard core” plans. The constant pursuit of strength and exactness is giving way to a newfound curiosity about my body's mobility and flexibility.
Learning to embrace this shift has been both humbling and challenging. It is a journey of unlearning old habits and stepping outside the comfort of my familiar routines. I am learning to listen to my body, to prioritize mobility and stretching, and to acknowledge that rest and recovery are just as crucial as pushing myself to my limits.
The process of letting go of the intensity I once thrived on is not easy. There are moments when I yearn for the familiar rush of adrenaline and the satisfaction of pushing my body to its limits. However, I am slowly discovering the beauty of being more gentle and thoughtful in my approach to movement. I am learning that flexibility is a testament to the versatility and resilience of the human body. And that I am just as strong, disciplined and safe to be here, in this iteration, with these needs, as I was with my former programming. Who I am, how I operate and what I can be counted on for do not change based upon what my body is presently doing.
“Trusting in the evolution of my training means letting go of the need for rigid control and embracing the flow of growth and progress. It means getting curious about what my body can do, pushing boundaries not only physically but mentally as well.”
As I navigate this new phase of my athletic journey, I am grateful for the discipline and structure that sports have instilled in me. They have shaped me into the person I am today, providing a solid foundation for growth and resilience. Now, I am embracing the art of balance, combining the intensity of my past with the flexibility of my present. A new chapter that had to literally come as a pain in my neck, but one that I’m sure will inform the ways I move forward.
All of this to say, trainers have to take their own medicine, too. And if you find yourself at a new starting point, I feel you. And I’d love to be the support you need as you discover your new needs, embrace a new era or learn to push yourself in new ways.
Fill out this form here if you have any questions or if you’re interested in working with me and I’ll get right back to you.
