This is a long one ya’ll. I’m in the process of learning a life lesson. Three we…

This is a long one ya’ll. I’m in the process of learning a life lesson. Three weeks ago, I pulled something in my back, making it excruciating to bend or especially twist.

Twice, I’ve re-injured it by pushing myself to do my normal activities it wasn’t ready for. I broke down and sobbed when I got alone in my car after hurting myself during a workout, not from the pain, but out of pure frustration that my body couldn’t keep up with my demands.
I finally went to the doctor and was prescribed meds and rest. My first thought: I DON’T HAVE TIME TO BE INJURED. I hate missing work. I am entirely uncomfortable and riddled with guilt laying around while my colleagues are covering for me and busting their sses, pain or no pain.
And then it dawned on me that of all the things I do for my health on a daily basis, I do not often allow it adequate rest. I eat my veggies, exercise, drink lots of water, take vitamins, probiotics and fish oil. I floss. I wear sunscreen daily. But I am always exhausted.

After weeks of stubbornly trying to be productive despite my pain, I’m putting my foot down on myself. I’m going to take my meds, lay flat on this pool lounger and probably doze off for a nap. I am going to listen to some music, sip my favorite polarseltzer, and enjoy the sunshine.

Most importantly, I’m going to *try* to do it without guilt. My body needs time to heal, and I need to let it. Always remember to listen to what your body needs. Running yourself into the ground doesn’t make you a hero. You cannot take care of anyone else well until you’ve cared for yourself well. Take care of YOU, y’all.