Staying sane is probably one of the most difficult tasks to accomplish when you can’t work out. Keeping mentally sane may be tougher than some of your toughest workouts. Why do we torture ourselves like this? We get it though, the idea of not being able to workout may be one of our worst fears. However, if you find yourself in a position where you can’t workout for a period of time you’ll need to shift your thoughts. If you are hurt, then physically it is important to take the break. If you are just too busy or traveling or had a baby or whatever your circumstance then it will be equally important to focus on your mental state too.
The idea here is that when we can’t work out we can easily send our thoughts into a quick downward spiral. ‘I am going to get fat. My muscles are going to shrink. I won’t feel good. I will get out of shape.’ etc, etc. What is important is remembering that physically your body welcomes a break. It is important to work mini-breaks into your workout routine anyway. If for some reason you need to take a longer break, use these tips to keep yourself mentally sane until you can workout again.
Control what you can control.
In other words, don’t worry about the fact that you can’t workout because that is something you can’t control right now. Focus on things you can control. For instance, make healthy food choices. Being healthy isn’t only about working out, it is about how you are nourishing the body too! You can also control what you drink.
Pick up something new.
What is something you have been wanting to try or pick back up? Take this time to try something new. Are there a couple books you have been meaning to read? Is there a local pottery class you’ve been wanting to take more regularly. This is a great time to shift your focus to something else that makes you happy.
Meditate
Even if it isn’t for you meditating can be super helpful while you are taking a break from the gym. It can even help you gain more body awareness and control of your breathing when you are ready to get back to your workouts. Meditation can help with blood flow, strengthen your breath, and challenge your heart rate.
