I haven't lifted weights in weeks…
A few weeks ago, we were in Costa Rica on a plant medicine Ayahuasca retreat. You can watch the videos about it here, here and here.
When in Costa Rica, I lifted weights only twice, both times at the beginning of our stay when I still had energy for it. Later, Ayahuasca really got all my energy and I was absolutely drained… If you've been there or heard someone else's experience with plant medicine, you know that it's really, really intense.
I wasn't to able to work out when I was there, I was barely able to walk a bit. This is how exhausted it made me. I spent most of the time between the ceremonies attending workshops and resting and lying down.
Also since coming back, I haven’t felt like lifting. It's been weeks now but I haven't felt like it. I love the gym and lifting weights and myself (aka bodyweight training) and I’m sure I’ll get back to it, but right now, I haven’t felt like it at all.
I Would Never Thought that I Can Go Weeks Without Working Out
Looking back 10, 5, even 3 years ago, I wouldn’t have let this happen. Skipping the gym would have meant I’m weak, have no willpower or determination. I never skipped, even if it made me tired, burned out and caused me to lose my period.
Now it doesn’t mean these things anymore. There are no negative attachments associated with taking time off.
Now skipping the gym if my body tells me that this is what I need to do, means that I’m listening to my body. It’s still recovering from the experience we had last week and I simply don’t need any kind of pushing. And that's okay.
Stop Worrying About What Might Happen When You Rest More
I know many people will worry what happens to their weight or muscle definition when give their bodies a bit more rest. They may also believe they have to stop eating altogether when they stop working out hard. I used to believe the same things as well.
Stop thinking about it so much. It keeps your mind racing and never lets you calm down.
When I was in Hypothalamic Amenorrhea recovery I had to slow down and although the thought of letting go of exercise was scary, I did it for my health. Since then, I’ve been listening to myself much more. I am recovered now and have my period back but I still go through phases when I train a bit too much (and then find myself tired) but for the most part, I know better than ever before what kind of movement I need. And I really listen to it!
You Know What's Right For You, Just Trust It.
You have this voice inside too that tells you how much and what kind of movement is right for you. Just pay attention to this voice and don’t worry what others are doing, how many calories you burn or will not burn as a result of taking it easier, an what kind of effect it has on your body.
Remember that if you’re able to hear your body whisper, you never have to hear it scream!
If you need help with hypothalamic amenorrhea or learning how to eat flexibly, mindfully and healthfully without dieting, I can help you.
We work on your behaviors around food and fitness, improve your body image and if needed, create your unique training plan that supports your health and wellness goals.
Get in touch here if you're ready to take the step towards food freedom and true physical and mental health.
https://kerstenkimura.com/work-with-me/
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