“Sometimes we need to slow down, not because we are weak, but because that’s where the strength of wisdom begins.”
— Unknown
Rebuilding Strength and Rhythm
I’ve really been getting into training at the gym again. For the past four weeks, I’ve been lifting heavy, eating better — especially more protein — and finding my groove. It’s amazing how quickly your body responds. I must say, I’m loving the feeling of getting stronger, of adding a little more weight each week.
My son tells me it’s muscle memory that’s making it easier to find my rhythm again. And maybe he’s right. I’ve been training on and off my entire adult life. I’m not chasing a beach body — I’m building strength for the long haul. For the version of me who still wants to hike, run, travel, and do what I love at 60 and beyond. Flexibility, strength, vitality — that’s the goal.
The Unexpected Pause
This week was supposed to be a big one. We’re heading out on a hunting safari this weekend with clients, so I planned to train hard before we go. It’s not that we aren’t active while hunting — we are — but it’s a different kind of movement.
Monday started strong with a killer glute and hamstring workout, followed by a 5km walk with my husband in the afternoon. I felt unstoppable. Then Tuesday arrived with a dry, scratchy throat. I brushed it off and still hit a chest and triceps session that afternoon. But by Tuesday night, sleep was elusive. A full-blown head cold had settled in.
Mind Over Body?
No aches or fever, just congestion and irritation. Still, it meant no training on Wednesday. Now it’s Thursday, and physically I feel better — but mentally, I’m unhinged. I want to train. I want to stay on track. I haven’t had a cold or flu in six or seven years — why now, just as I’m starting to see progress?
I find myself wondering whether I could sneak in a short dumbbell workout at home. Nothing too strenuous. I vaguely remember that exercise boosts the immune system — and if there’s no fever, it’s fine to train, right? But then again, I haven’t been eating properly the last couple of days. I’m not fueling my body like I should.
Letting the Lesson Land
And that’s the thing, isn’t it? We struggle to go with the flow when the flow dares to interrupt our plans.
Instead of surrendering to rest, I’m mentally negotiating how to push forward. Outside, it’s grey, cold and wet — a perfect match for the fog in my head. And yet, somewhere in the stillness, a deeper truth arises.
I get to do this. I get to move. To train. To be strong. So many others would give anything to do what I’m able to do. For them, physical limitation is their “normal.”
I’m not naturally a morning person — but maybe I should be. Maybe I should wake each day with gratitude simply for being able to rise, move, and live without constraint.
The Gift in the Pause
Every day offers a new lesson — even when the teacher shows up as a humble head cold. So take the pause. Let your body speak. And when the moment’s right, return to the rhythm. Stronger. Wiser. More grateful.
Go on — seize each day. Make your life extraordinary.
Wild Soul Notes 