After years of super hard intense dancing and physical activity on my body, I am coming to the realization that I am no longer 18! I am… in fact, almost 44. I know that seems funny to most, but to me I have always kept this youthful feeling inside of me and always wanted to push my body to its limits as long as I could.
I am still amazed at what my body can do, but I am also very aware now of what it does not want nor like to do. The past couple of years have been humbling to say the least and I have been dealing with some injuries that I know probably started from a younger age. They have been there for years, but I chose to ignore them. The cool part is that through awesome nutrition and tools like Apollas, cross-training, myofascial massage, and chiropractic care, I have been able to maintain and keep what I have left and strong.
I say this to all of you reading, because it is SO important to take care of your body. It is inevitable that we all have a time frame with our careers, especially when it comes to a physical career. However, I know without a shadow of a doubt that my daily regimens of self-care have aided and increased my longevity. I encourage all of you reading to create your daily self-care regimen. Here is an example of what I do every day to make sure I am following in line with what I need to still be dancing, teaching and be the best mom and wife I can be.
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Wake up 30 minutes earlier than everyone to have a quiet time. I can make coffee, read, listen to a podcast while I make lunch boxes.
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Drink a large glass of water with lemon and cinnamon
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Move my body for at least 45 minutes a day.
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Start my day food wise with high protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats.
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Eat my plant powders by Juice Plus+. www.Clinelewisjones.juiceplus.com
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Spend time with my family
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Get at least 7- 8 hours of sleep a night
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Stretching for at least 20 minutes at night
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Eat 3 colorful meals
Some things that I do a couple or few times a month is chiropractic care and myofascial work. This has been a game changer for me and keeping my body in a happy place. I was told that I need a hip replacement over a year ago. This is a last option, but I know the day will come soon. Instead of saying yes to surgery I am doing all I can to maintain what I have. All the things I listed above will help keep me on track and away from surgery for even more time.
The number one thing I am learning the most is patience. I always tell my dancers I am teaching that patience is the greatest power that they have. Not only being patient with every dance step but being patient with trials and tribulations that will come into their life at some point. My best advice is to be patient with your journey. Everyone’s journey looks different, and we don’t always know what to do when something hard comes into our life. Patience is your greatest strength in the world. Don’t rush the process. Don’t rush the injury. Don’t rush the hurt.
Instead, stay consistent with your self-care each day. I promise it will make everything doable and better. Lastly, make sure to have your tribe of people that lift you up. They are vital for your recovery in all aspects of your life.
Written By: Caroline Lewis-Jones
