Dealing with injury: a mental challenge 🧠 

Injuries can suck! Not only a significant physical burden but also a mental burden. 🧠 The challenges can be multifaceted, requiring us to navigate through various emotions and adjustments. Let’s discuss some of the common challenges individuals face when dealing with an injury and provide helpful insights for coping effectively.

The Physical Side: Maintaining the Same Hunger and Appetite 😋

One of the many challenges that arise with an injury is maintaining the same level of hunger and appetite as before. When we are unable to engage in physical activities, our bodies may still crave the same amount of food, leading to weight gain. It can be frustrating to see the numbers on the scale increase, especially when we were used to an active lifestyle. However, it's important to remember that our bodies have different needs during the recovery process.

The Mental Side: Embracing Rest and Overcoming Laziness

During the recovery period, it's common to feel lazy or unproductive while being confined to rest. It can be challenging to enjoy not doing anything and be okay with it. However, it's crucial to recognise that rest is a crucial part of the healing process. Embracing rest allows our bodies to recover and rejuvenate.

This is an important time to find activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as reading, listening to music, or practicing mindfulness, can help shift our perspective and make the most out of this restful time.

The Mental Side: Overcoming the Frustration of Watching Others Exercise

One of the most challenging aspects of dealing with an injury is watching others engage in physical activities while we are unable to do so. (especially the easy access to platforms such as Strava.) It can be upsetting to witness others enjoying exercise while we are restricted. However, it's essential to remember that everyone's journey is unique, and comparing ourselves to others is not what we need. Instead, focusing on our own recovery and finding alternative ways to stay active within our limitations can help maintain a positive mindset.

For example, if you have injured your feet. Maybe it is a sign to start working on your upper body!

The accountability mirror 🪞

Monday: 9k base

Tuesday: rest day

Wednesday: 14k intervals

Thursday: rest day

Friday: 14k trail run

Saturday: 8k recovery

Sunday: 13K tempo effort

Total distance: 58.9k

Total Time: 5 hours 28 minutes

That is it for this week!

hope you all have a good day!

Thanks 🙏

Arthur ⚙️