Whether you’re training for an event, trying to tone up for summer, or just sticking to a fitness regime to support a healthy lifestyle, getting injured is a big kick in the teeth. But, unfortunately, it’s something that happens to most of us at some point. We get injured playing team sports, we strain something at the gym after not warming up correctly, or perhaps most annoyingly we pull a muscle or overstretch our back playing with the kids, or even getting out of bed in the morning. No matter how fit you are, or how much you try to avoid them, injuries happen.
When they do, it’s important that you give your body the rest and treatment that it needs to recover, without rushing yourself and making things worse. But, it’s also essential that you take time to think about your mental health. If exercise plays a big part in your typical routine, you’ve probably been reaping the metal health rewards that come with it. Regular exercise gets you out of the house, meeting people and avoiding isolation. It boosts your confidence and serotonin levels, helping you to prevent depression and combat other mental health issues. It makes you feel good about yourself, and a strong mind often accompanies a healthy body. The loss of these benefits, being stuck at home resting more, and feeling down about a halt in your progress, can all contribute to feelings of depression and a loss of confidence. So, let’s take a look at some ways to take care of your mental health while you recover.
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Look After Your Body
There’s often a temptation to rush back to the gym as soon as this feels better. But, pushing too hard will only make you feel worse. To look after your mind, you also need to look after your body. See orthopedic physician associates for help building a new training plan or advice on your recovery, and at least you’ll know that you are doing the right thing.
Get Out
The worst thing that you can do when you are sore and upset is sitting at home on your own all of the time — of course, a day here and there chilling in your PJs, watching Netflix won’t hurt if that’s what you want. But, if you start to feel down, or lonely, get out. Go for a walk if you can, head to your local library or community center, meet up with friends and even go to the gym to see your friends there.
Try a New Hobby
Some injuries will still allow you to exercise other areas of your body. It might be a great time to try swimming or yoga, that won’t put as much pressure on your joints. If you can’t exercise at all, try something completely different like photography or writing. Anything that occupies your mind is excellent, and being able to track your progress, hit goals and see improvement will help to boost your confidence and self-esteem, just like exercise does.
Give Yourself Grace
Realize that injuries happen. You need to give yourself high time and grace to heal.
Have you ever suffered an injury? How did you recover?
