I used to be...
Looking to “get back into it”?
Maybe you’ve said or thought something like this recently…
“I used to be a really fit person, I did XYZ for years and was so strong. I don’t really know what happened but life got in the way and now I don't know where to start.”
Let’s face it. Chances are we’ve all had this moment at one time or another and for so many reasons. Mental health, babies, work, injuries, illness, caring for others. The list of reasons why your movement may have fallen by the way-side are endless, and each one is valid and 100% worthy of your self compassion and kindness.
These life altering events can take us away from our training for a day, a month, a year, maybe many years and often the longer we are away, the harder it feels to return.
There’s often an element of dread, worrying how far “behind” we have fallen (ps. There’s no such thing as behind, but we will get to that later).
There may be big changes we would need to implement to create the space and time to return to the things we love which can feel like a logistical nightmare. Often implementing these changes requires some serious boundary setting and that can be an uncomfortable process if we haven't practiced this before.
And then, whether we realize it at the time or not, there is often an element of shame around our current fitness level and possibly even body composition.
Firstly - each of these feelings and concerns are completely ok!
They may be hard to face.
They may feel even harder to overcome, but all of your feelings here are valid.
Secondly, I would encourage you to reflect on these feelings, where they come from and how they’re potentially holding you back now as you long to return to the things you love. Try looking them square in the face. Tough, I know, but unfortunately the only way is through in this situation.
And now, while you look at these feelings, try looking at them with the compassion and care you would show your bestie if they came to you with these feelings. Like putting on a pair of sunglasses where the tint is love and kindness.
I’d be willing to bet they look a little different now huh?
As you look to return to the things that make you smile, whether strength training, pole, running, dance, yoga or any other movement, try speaking to yourself with the same kindness and compassion you would undoubtedly show your best friend.
You’d never shame them for the time they have had away from movement, you wouldn’t tell them they shouldn't bother now. You certainly wouldn’t point out how their body has changed, how they may be starting from a different place than they left off.
So the question is, why would you speak these words to and about yourself?
Aren’t you worthy of the immense compassion you show others?
Aren’t your reasons for stepping away just as valid as those others have shared with you?
While you ponder that one, I’m popping in here as an instructor and coach to assure you that those who are there to support and guide you through that return are NEVER there to shame or guilt.
We are so dang excited to see your face back at it that nothing else matters.
As for your starting place - it’s 100% perfection!
We have all the tools and tips to help you get right back to where you were and to exceed that if that is what feels right for you. Or perhaps a different baseline is the new normal for you, and how beautiful is it that those options exist for us all?
We will work with your injuries, illness, energy levels and any other contributing factor to ensure your path back to yourself and the movement you love is as smooth as we can make it.
And we will be cheering un-ashamedly every step of the way, no matter how loopy we may look. Personally, I’m a fan of an interpretive dance celebration, but always open to suggestions.
If the internal monologue and critique are getting louder, draw on the strength and encouragement of those around you, and just aim to take that first step.
It may be the most difficult, but it is also the most life changing.
It’s the first step that will get you where you need to go. The first lesson, private coaching session or living room workout is arguably the most important.
Need some extra support?
Go, right now, and reach out to someone you think could help.
A coach or instructor, a fellow student, your bestie. Chances are they are ready and waiting in the wings with all the encouragement you need until you become your own greatest cheerleader.
You’re already doing amazing things! You simply have to notice them!
