Today, for the first time in a very long time I reduced my weights during my workout. I am not feeling 100% and I think I might be getting a cold. At the end of the semester and heading into exam week, it’s normal to be feeling exhausted and ready for a break. When you are so used to constantly pushing yourself and striving for your best, it can be difficult to listen to what your body needs.
Listening to your body is so important.
Not only does this prevent injury, but it allows you to recover and become stronger. Your body really does know best. It knows when you need a break and it knows when you need to take it easy.
It’s okay to take a couple rest days. It’s okay to go easy during your workout, to lighten your weights or reduce your miles. Listening to what your body needs is the best thing you can do to for yourself.
This also goes for nutrition. If you are hungry, it means you need to eat. I know this seems blatantly obvious, but there are still many people who think you need to limit your calories to a specific number each day. There’s no magic number of calories you need. Your body is constantly changing and growing. Every day is different. If you are hungry, it means you need food. Your body needs fuel to repair muscles and to recover. It needs fuel for strength. It needs fuel for growth. If you are hungry, you need to eat.
I understand it can be difficult to listen to what your body needs, especially when you want to push yourself to reach new goals. Listening to yourself is part of the process and part of your growth. Remember to listen to your body. It always knows what’s best for you.