I don’t push through physical pain because I’ve done it enough to know that pain is a cautionary tale. In fact, the “No pain, no gain” mantra needs to disappear forever because it’s absolutely false. Pain usually means I’m doing too much, too fast, too soon and my body is about to go on strike. But in the past, while doped up on adrenaline, endorphins and youth, I’ve ignored all the pain signals that eventually landed me in the emergency room. Multiple times. And then I was relegated to rest and a boring regiment of PT exercises which really sucked as a professional dancer whose passions and income were wrapped up in my ability to perform.
Now, I pull up my big girl panties and pay attention to pain. Especially since I don’t bounce back like I used to. I slow down, listen to my body and assess what it needs. Do I need to be more present? Am I attempting an exercise that’s too advanced for me right now? Do I need to find a more efficient way of moving that feels better in my body? Do I need rest &/or bodywork? If I pay attention to pain signals at their onset I can generally regress, modify or eliminate an exercise and the pain disappears. What I love about the Pilates Method is that it’s not about fast, mindless or haphazard movements. It’s the exact opposite. The goal is to be fully present, intentional and in control of what you’re doing. It’s about training your body to move with optimal efficiency so it feels and functions better than you could ever imagine. And when practiced thoughtfully, progressively, and systematically, the odds of getting hurt are slim.
Pain and injury have definitely been learning opportunities for me, though. They’ve taught me to be eternally grateful for the gift of movement and the awesome physical career I’ve enjoyed – despite myself. And while my body still loves to move and be challenged, I know it’s important to listen to her and respond compassionately. The more I respect my body’s needs, the stronger and more resilient my body becomes.
S.I.T. With Yourself in April
This month’s #soakedinthought journaling prompts are dedicated to body confidence and fitness as a lifestyle. As we move into Spring and the fitness industry ramps up its messaging about getting “in shape” for Summer, I hope you’ll sit with yourself to figure out what your body, mind, and spirit need to feel healthy, fit, and happy – without all the external voices.
