The Power of Exercise: Recovering from Illness Through Movement
When illness strikes, our bodies often become stiff and painful from lack of movement. This was my recent experience after several days of sickness, where even the simplest stretches caused discomfort in my legs, back, and joints. The lesson became clear: consistent exercise isn't just about fitness—it's essential for maintaining basic comfort and mobility.
After days of feeling unwell with headaches and congestion, I decided it was time to get moving again. Despite not feeling 100%, I knew that gentle exercise would help my recovery more than continued rest. This decision proved correct as I found myself able to jog continuously for five minutes—something I couldn't manage just the day before.
The Mental Challenge of Exercise
The hardest part of fitness isn't always the physical aspect but the mental discipline required. As I often remind myself, it's “very hard to lose weight, but very easy to gain weight.” Success comes down to control—controlling your body rather than letting it control you.
This means developing the willpower to say no to temptations like that delicious shawarma and yes to movement, even when it's the last thing you want to do. The key is to “force your body to move” past the initial resistance.
Start Where You Are
One important reminder for anyone beginning or returning to exercise: you don't need to be a professional or lift heavy weights to benefit from movement. As I shared during my workout, “We must not lift 100 pounds to get results. Just start by lifting 10 pounds. Five pounds. Just little by little, we are going to be fine.”
This principle applies to cardio exercise too. While my treadmill goes up to speed level 12, I currently stay at level 7. Before gaining weight, I could handle level 9, and my goal is to eventually work up to level 10. But pushing beyond your current capacity isn't smart—”If I put 10, I will fall. Because of my weight.”
The Rewards of Consistency
During this recovery workout, I was able to track my progress through metrics like calories burned (approaching 200) and increased stamina. The simple joy of movement returned as my energy levels improved.
The difference between feeling helpless during illness and regaining control through movement is profound. Even a short 20-minute session can transform how you feel both physically and mentally.
Listen to Your Body, But Challenge It
While recovering from illness, it's essential to pay attention to your body's signals. However, there's a difference between respecting limitations and giving in to inactivity. Sometimes, a gentle push is exactly what your body needs to break through the lethargy that comes with being unwell.
Your health is your most valuable asset. When you're in good health, you can pursue your goals and dreams. Exercise is one of the most reliable ways to maintain that asset, regardless of your current fitness level.
Start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can. Your body will thank you for it.
