After months of recovery and adapting to a new normal, I’m finally finding my way back to the activities that bring me joy, strength, and purpose. Here are some reflections and updates on where I’m at in this journey:
1. Easing Back Into Lifting
I’ve always loved lifting weights, and getting back to it has been amazing. My current limit is 15 pounds, and I’m sticking to it to ensure I stay on track with my recovery. Right now, I “lift” 3-5 days a week, complemented by daily yoga, physiotherapy exercises, and cardio. My cardio routine includes daily walking, YouTube aerobics, and sessions on my recumbent bike. It feels great to have structure again and to move my body in ways that feel good.
2. Back on the Ice
My physio recently gave me the green light to test out skating with the girls I coach (ringette). This is a huge milestone for me, and I’m beyond excited. Skating has always been a source of joy and connection, and I can’t wait to see how it feels to glide on the ice again.
3. Mobility Challenges
I’ve realized just how much my mobility has taken a hit. It’s shocking to feel so inflexible and immobile, but I’m determined to work on it. Every stretch, yoga session, and physio exercise is a step toward regaining range of motion.
4. Saying Yes to Life
When you’re no longer in constant, debilitating pain, you want to embrace life fully. I’ve been saying “yes” more—to girls’ nights, date nights, and social events. It’s not always easy, but I’m committed to living life again and cherishing these moments of connection and joy.
5. The Journey of Building Back Up
Rebuilding strength and function is challenging, but I’m lucky to have a fantastic physio guiding me. She’s been instrumental in keeping me in check, ensuring I progress safely. This week, I got the go-ahead to incorporate forward flexion and light hinging movements—small wins that feel monumental. I am also off all the meds I was on. I take tylenol here and there but its been great as those meds had nasty side effects!
6. Gratitude for Progress
I’m deeply grateful for how much better I feel and for the progress I’ve made. Life is improving day by day, and I’m learning to celebrate the small victories.
7. Managing Nerve and Scar Tissue Issues
While I still have some numbness and nerve-related issues, they’re manageable. A current goal is to get scar tissue from nerve damage moving again. It’s a work in progress, but I’m optimistic.
8. Planning and Traveling
With my health improving, I’ve started to travel a bit and plan future trips. Travel brings me so much joy, and I’m incredibly grateful to feel up to it again.
9. Things I’m Loving Right Now
Here’s a list of things making my recovery and daily life better:
EVLO Fitness: Gentle yet effective workouts that are easy on the joints.
Down Dog Yoga: A fantastic app for my yoga practice.
My Recumbent Bike: A game-changer for cardio.
Winter Boots: Keeping me steady and warm.
Heating Pad and Ice Pack: Essentials for recovery.
Massage Therapy: I’m excited to get a massage next week!
Abby Pollock’s Core Program: Helping me rebuild core strength.
Fitbit: Tracking sleep, activity, and stats has been motivating. I’m loving the data and looking forward to seeing my progress over time.
This journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been so rewarding to feel stronger, more mobile, and more alive. Here’s to continuing to rebuild, embrace life, and celebrate every win, big or small.
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