Exercise Warriors

I’ve always been used to pushing through pain when it comes to exercise, but recently I’ve been reluctant to even do any at all and I’m just starting to figure out why.

For the past 16 months I’ve been dealing with ongoing injuries that seem never-ending. It started with nerve damage in my left wrist last February (I pushed down a soap dispenser!), followed by my right ankle in October (walking in the Corfu sand too much) and then my right shoulder rotator cuff in March - no idea what caused that one.

So I’ve been getting osteopath treatment for all 3 and a few months ago started a rehabilitation program which consists of stabilsiing and strengthening exercises.

I’m dying to get back to being able to lay on my right side, wash the dishes, drive, dance, boxercise and basically do normal things without pain...who am I kidding, what have I ever done without pain…

The injuries are finally beginning to heal, but there’s so much work to do to be fully functioning again and no guarantee it will happen.

However, I’m doing my best to maintain a positive mindset and hope for the best. Most importantly, I have to put in the work.

Anyway, as eager as I am, I’ve not been consistent with my exercises at all. It’s as if there’s a mental block.

I’ve never felt so overwhelmed and anxious about exercise!

I think it’s a combination of being apprehensive about causing flares in other parts of my body, re-injuring myself and the fact that healing is taking so damn long!

Re-injury would feel like a setback, a flare could render me immobile; particularly in my back as I possibly wouldn’t be able to use my crutches with the shoulder and wrist injuries being on opposite sides.

I’m generally used to the ‘everyday’ pain and flares, but it’s so much harder when it’s a new injury.

I know these are fears or concerns for many of us and a common reason that stops us exercising. Recently, I’ve realised even more how important building muscle strength, regular movement and using my body in the right way is.

I’m working on getting my head around this, so my mission is to get myself into the right mindset and to let go of the fear and apprehension so I can get my body back to ‘normal’.

In light of everything I’ve said, this month’s podcast is all about exercise and I’ve got a couple of really inspiring Chronic Warriors joining me.

They’ve had their struggles, have worked really hard to get to where they are today and share their experiences and knowledge to help the chronic illness community.

Whether you’re interested in energetic or gentle exercise, I think they will inspire you just like they’ve inspired me.

Part 1 Sunday 8th August with Tracy Rodriguez

Part 2 Sunday 22nd August with Mairi Sutherland