Recovery and the Ups and Downs of Health

It would be nice if life was always like unicorns and glitter all the time, right?

Eat anything you want.  Never gain weight.  No workouts.  More money and no work.  All happiness and no disappointments.

Sounds amazing doesn't it.

But we know all too well this is not reality.

I am most aware now, more than ever, caring for my daughter, Jaina as she recovers from a tonsilectomy and adenoidectomy.

She, like many, did not do anything to cause this or expect this, but it is something that just happens and you have to deal with it.

I am sure you think of several occasions where this was you.

Perhaps not surgery, but an injury, illness, or accident.

An event happens and I think we all expect if we do what "we are supposed to do", everything will just get better and recovery improves every day in every aspect. 

However, it is important to understand that recovery is not linear.

As I have worked with patients and clients over the years and when pain persists or there seems to be set backs, that is part of the journey and can't be avoided. 

You don't get home from a surgery...knee or hip replacement, heart procedure, pneumonia, etc and start getting better and feeling better EVERY SINGLE DAY.

It is not realistic to have this expectation and as much as we desperately seek relief from pain and return to our "normal lives." 

it sets us up to be even more let down which may cause an even bigger downhill spiral.

From my experience in caring for Jaina, we have done everything right.  Lots of fluids, rest, protein rich soft foods, scheduled ibuprofen and tylenol, and ice or popsicles.  It has been a pretty decent experience so far.

Until this morning. It was not a good morning.

Which instantly makes me question, "What went wrong?"

The "overthinking begins".

Not enough fluids?  Did I miss any dose of tylenol?

I knew I should have woken her up like I did every other morning to take ibuprofen, but she looked so peaceful as she slept. 

I thought the extra sleep might have helped.

Son of a ....! I should have woken her up!

SQUEEEEEEEEEK!  HIT THE BRAKES!

This line of thinking is a waste of time and may only create more negative emotion that will hold you, or whoever you are caring farther from loving recovery. 

Whatever we may be dealing with, don't put energy on things you can't change. Trust your judgement.  Know that every intention is a good one.

I use this analogy all the time with patients, recovery is like the stock market, there are going to be ups and downs, but trust, give it time, and you will see your investment rise.

Regardless of recovery, or even managing a medical condition, or starting a fitness program, results are not instant. 

investment over time WILL BE the pay off.  

You must be patient.

You must prepare for the dips and the drops.

You must be centered and recognize that there are bound to be tough times despite your drive to always force the arrow to go UP!

Goodness knows there are so many factors and variables that we can't control.  Our bodies are no different.

Some days you feel good.  Some days, for no explanation, you just don't.

You need to understand that is it part of the process.  Don't freak out and don't be too hard on yourself.

Stay Consistent. When you are consistent with your health habits. Nutrition, exercise, mindset (my health model), know that there will always be an UP. You just don't know when. 

Respect the down and honor it.  Know it will be short lived and have faith that there will be an up.

 Understanding this point will allow you release the worry, forget the anxiety of what you "didn't do", and forge onto a new day which I promise you, will be a better one.

Here's to the good, the bad and all the lessons we learn along the way.

Marcie Weber: Founder of Fitnessbaker.com.  Marcie has been a practicing physical therapist for over 20 years. She has practiced in multiple settings from outpatient to early intervention and personally continues on her health journey as an active runner became a certified PiYO Instructor. in 2014.  Marcie strongly believes that good health is not gifted to anyone, but a goal that all should strive for through joyful responsibility.  She is married to her wonderful husband and a mother to two amazing daughters.  Living a balanced life with my nutrition, consistent exercise, and a rock solid mindset has allowed her to enjoy life at the age of 45 with no intention of slowing down.  Marcie's approach to this lifestyle has help countless patients and clients to live life with habits that bring long term results and endless energy and happiness.

To connect with her personally regarding questions, topics that interest you, or just to share your amazing wins or struggles that are holding you back,  please send an email to [email protected]