As a yoga teacher of 30 years this year (wow), I’ve always been pretty fit – especially since adding weight training about 10 years ago.
But I haven’t always been healthy.
I think it’s really easy to confuse the two – and they don’t sit in the same bucket. They each need their own kind of care…
This is me looking pretty ‘fit’. Most people would not have guessed how rubbish I was feeling internally.
What I’ve noticed over time..
Over the past six years (since 2020), I’ve really seen first-hand that just because you can run a 10k doesn’t mean your immune system is in good health. In fact, the number of people who come through my programme who have been extremely fit, and still became the most unwell they’ve ever been, would probably surprise you (unless this is something you’ve experienced yourself).
What I’ve observed is that it’s often those who push themselves the hardest – striving for difficult goals, pushing through fatigue, trying to shave off one more minute from a personal best, working long hours to finish a huge project etc – who can end up with an immune system that’s ready to pull the plug.
The quiet warning signs ⚠️
Our bodies are incredibly capable, but they also need to be treated with respect and kindness. And we need to pay close attention to the health of our nervous system whilst asking our bodies to perform at their peak.
Fitness is absolutely achievable, but it’s only truly sustainable when the rest of your life is supported too.
If you’re carrying a lot of work stress, navigating grief or loss, or driven by a need for approval, sometimes fitness can become a way of pushing through – or avoiding what really needs to be felt.
Our bodies will often go along with us… until they can’t anymore.
When the nervous system can’t support the demands, the quieter signs of “enough now” begin to show up.
– You might still be able to run your 10k, but your sleep starts to be affected.
– You might still do your HIIT class, but it takes much longer to recover.
– You might notice heart palpitations or ectopic beats when you lie down at night…often a sign your system is asking for attention.
What’s changed the game for me!
Learning to really listen to my own body has been a huge game-changer for me. I’m now back to exercising around five days a week (!) – two circuits classes, two Yoga practices and a dance class – and alongside that, I prioritise supporting my nervous system too.
Because addressing what we’re holding emotionally can have a powerful impact on our health. At the end of every nerve cell is a group of mast cells waiting for their call to action and inflammation can be a slippery slope leading to a whole host of symptoms.
I also want you to know that you don’t have to let go of your six pack (does anyone I know actually have one?) to be healthy…but adding in deep rest practices: Yoga Nidra, meditation, soothing sound, massage, talking things through if needed, slow time off screen, and time in nature, all help you to be both fit and healthy.