Injuries are inevitable, but how we respond to them makes all the difference. This week, I found myself in a walking boot after an ankle issue surfaced, creating a whole new set of challenges. While it’s frustrating to adjust, I’ve reframed this setback as an opportunity to strengthen both my body and mindset.

My mornings currently start with compression socks, mobility exercises, and non-weight-bearing strength workouts, much of which is done from my knees. Even gripping the floor with my feet has become part of my recovery. The goal? To get back to gym workouts and outdoor steps, but more importantly, to keep moving forward…but to do this the right way, taking all the time I need.

Recovery is as much mental as it is physical. Losing access to familiar tools like gym routines can be daunting, but it’s a chance to adapt and grow. That’s the essence of a forever active lifestyle…embracing change and continuing to move forward at a patient, deleberate pace.