She Strengthens

Finding Balance in Fitness: A Personal Journey

At 11:30 in the morning, I hit rock bottom. Exhaustion had become my constant companion, and I longed for a spark of energy to get me through the day. Despite my desire to collapse and sleep for hours, I knew that wouldn’t solve the problem. Little did I know, I was on the verge of a two-year battle with adrenal fatigue.

The Role of Adrenal Glands

Our adrenal glands play a crucial role in maintaining our body’s balance through hormone production. One of these hormones, cortisol, is released during times of stress, helping us respond to danger. However, in today’s fast-paced world, we’re stuck in a perpetual state of fight or flight, leading to a compromised immune system, digestive issues, and eventually, full-body burnout.

My Descent into Burnout

During my darkest days, I was plagued by frequent colds, lethargy, and mental fogginess. My motivation and passion for fitness were dwindling, and I felt like I was just going through the motions. My doctor’s blunt diagnosis – “Your body is worn out, and if you don’t change, it will only get worse” – was a wake-up call.

Reevaluating My Fitness Routine

As a personal trainer, I had been pushing myself to the limit, teaching 15 classes a week with barely any breaks. It was unsustainable, and I knew I needed to make a change. I realized that energy management isn’t just about pushing yourself to the limit, but also about restoration and stress relief.

Discovering Mind-Body Connection

I turned to yoga and Pilates, which helped me develop a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection. These exercises focused on breath, posture, and connection to each muscle, allowing me to build a better level of body awareness. The slower pace and quieter atmosphere were a welcome respite from the high-energy workouts that had left me feeling drained.

Rediscovering Creativity and Energy

True health, to me, means having the energy to be creative and thrive in all aspects of life. By incorporating mindful eating, stress relief practices like meditation, and setting boundaries, I was able to regain my energy and eliminate the need for daytime naps. My mental fog began to lift, and I felt like myself again.

Drawing Boundaries

There were times when I pushed my limits, only to realize that I needed to prioritize my well-being. I drew a line in the sand, vowing to never again engage in high-impact activities that drained my energy. Instead, I focused on Pilates, yoga, brisk walks, and meditation – a routine that has served me well for nearly a decade.

Listening to Your Body

Every phase of life requires a different approach to exercise and well-being. It’s essential to listen to your body and stay true to your needs, whether that means slowing down or pushing yourself to new heights. By doing so, you can find balance and harmony in your fitness journey.