In the world of movement—whether it's a fiery Vinyasa flow, a strength session, a long hike, or a sweaty HIIT class—there’s something that often gets overlooked: recovery.

We live in a culture that often glorifies “go-go-go,” where pushing harder can feel like a badge of honor. But the truth is, the real magic happens when we allow the body to rest and repair. Without recovery, there’s no room for growth—only exhaustion, plateaus, or injury.

And I know this on a deeply personal level.

My own pause…

This past year, I had to step back in a big way due to a long-standing autoimmune issue I’ve had for over 21 years. My energy was extremely low, and for months I had barely any motivation. Movement practices that once felt energizing now left me completely depleted. I remember one particular workout that took me a week to recover from.

So, I paused.

Not because I necessarily wanted to—but because I had to. My body demanded it. And in that pause, something shifted. I began to feel the deeper wisdom of rest. I honored my body, let go of expectations, and allowed myself the space to recover. Slowly, gently, my energy began to return.

My movement still doesn’t look like it used to—and that’s okay. I’m learning that healing and strength can be found in softer spaces, in listening closely, and in taking intentional pauses.

Recovery is part of the work.

When you challenge your body, you’re actually breaking down muscle fibers on a micro level. It’s during rest and recovery that your body rebuilds stronger. Skipping this phase doesn’t speed up results—it stalls progress and increases the risk of burnout or injury.

Recovery doesn’t mean doing nothing. It means doing what’s needed to nourish your nervous system, your tissues, and your spirit.

What does recovery look like?

Recovery can be intentional, soothing, and incredibly supportive. Here are a few ideas:

• Gentle or Stretch-Based Yoga Classes: Reduce muscle stiffness, release tension, and bring calm to the body and mind.

• Self-Myofascial Release: Using therapy balls or foam rollers helps hydrate tissues and improve circulation.

• Restorative Yoga: Think bolsters, blankets, and long-held, supported poses that shift you into deep rest.

• Breathwork or Meditation: Support healing on all levels by slowing down and tuning inward.

• Nature Walks or Even a Nap: Yes, truly! A nap is a form of recovery too.

Honor the ebb so you can rise in the flow.

If you push hard one day, balance it out the next. A challenging Vinyasa or run might be followed by a Stretch & Restore class. This isn’t about doing less—it’s about working with your body, not against it.

Recovery allows you to show up more fully, more consistently, and with less strain.

So whether you're recovering from a single tough workout, a demanding season of life, or something deeper like I have been—give yourself the gift of the pause. Trust that growth is happening, even when you're still.

There is power in the pause. Let it restore you. Let it teach you. Let it guide your next step forward.

namasté, 

gina