As an aerialist, injuries are an unfortunately reality a lot of us face at some point in our journey. Whether it's a sprained ankle, pulled muscle, or more severe injuries, they can temporarily sideline even the most passionate aerialists.
What sets aerialists apart is their resilience and determination to bounce back, but its critical we also practice patience and self care to make sure we can continue to practice what we love for a long time.
Here are a few tips to getting back in the air.
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Embrace the Healing Process: Getting back in the air after an injury requires patience and understanding that healing takes time. As frustrating as it is, its critical to allow yourself to fully recover and follow the advice of medical professionals and therapists. Be kind to your body, nourish it with proper nutrition, and focus on rehabilitation exercises to regain strength and flexibility.
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Start Slow and Listen to Your Body: When you feel ready to return, start slowly and gradually ease back into your aerial practice. Respect your body's limitations and listen to its signals. Pay attention to any discomfort or pain and adjust your routine accordingly. Remember, it's better to progress steadily than to risk reinjury by pushing too hard too soon.
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Seek Professional Guidance: Teachers and trainers are so important to our aerial journey and even more so when returning from an injury. They can provide valuable guidance and create a modified training plan that caters to your specific needs and limitations. They can also offer alternative exercises or variations of moves to help you regain your strength and confidence.
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Focus on Technique and Fundamentals: Returning from an injury presents an opportunity to revisit the foundations, go back to basics. Emphasize proper technique and form, as this will not only prevent further injuries but also lay a solid groundwork for future progress. Take the time to refine your moves, perfect your lines, and strengthen your core stability.
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Cultivate a Positive Mindset: Coming back from an injury can bring a mix of emotions, including fear and self-doubt. Acknowledge these feelings but focus on cultivating a positive mindset. Celebrate small victories, embrace the journey, and be proud of your resilience. Surround yourself with a supportive community that understands your journey and can provide encouragement along the way.
Getting back up in the air after an injury is a journey that demands both physical and mental strength. It's an opportunity to rebuild, grow, and rediscover your love for the art form. It is possible to come back stronger than ever and to know your body better than ever. Be kind to yourself, be patient and hang in there till you can once again fly free and fly wild.