Embracing a New Chapter: Reclaiming My Health with a Gentle Approach

Aging has this way of sneaking up on you, doesn’t it? As we get older, our bodies start to shift in ways that demand we adapt. Movements that once felt effortless may start to feel different, and for someone who’s spent years running, lifting, and staying active, adjusting to these changes can be challenging. I’m no stranger to adapting my lifestyle for my health—in my late twenties, I experienced a cardiac arrest while training for my fourth marathon, which led to a diagnosis of ARVC, a genetic heart condition. That life-altering moment changed my approach to wellness, and each new phase brings fresh opportunities to rethink how I move and care for my body.

This past year, I’ve started to focus on a gentler, more sustainable approach to fitness. I’m prioritizing movement that supports my body where it’s at now, which has meant trying out new routines. I’ve added a weighted vest to my dog walks to ease into resistance training, found a love for lake swimming, and embraced gentle cycling and deep stretching. Not only are these activities kind to my joints and heart, but they’ve also brought me a sense of balance and peace.

Alongside these changes, I’ve been diving into research on perimenopause, SI joint strengthening, and ways to support my body’s natural shifts. Incorporating more protein, collagen, and amino acids into my diet has been essential for muscle support and recovery, giving me the strength to keep moving.

The biggest shift, though, has been in my mindset. Movement is a gift, something I don’t take for granted after all these years of living with a heart condition. I may not be running marathons anymore, but setting small, meaningful goals allows me to celebrate what I can do instead of focusing on limitations. Many people live without the ability to move freely, and there may come a time when I won’t have it either. So, while I have it, I’ll continue to cherish and nurture it.

Would you like to hear more about this journey and the ways I’m adapting my approach to health and wellness?

Let me know if these topics resonate with you!