Douglas Ireland

Moved a Bit, Felt Better

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douglasireland

Bank holiday Monday. No rush, no pressure. Just the quiet decision to go back to the gym for the first time in a while.

I’ve been out of action since a herniated disc left me in hospital for four nights. It’s been a slow recovery, and today felt like the right time to move again. I wrote a bit about that in Showing Up, but this was the first time I’ve really been back in the gym properly.

Starting slow on the Power Plate. This position helps release my lower back.

After the Power Plate, I hit the treadmill. No incline, just a brisk pace. Music in my ears, a workout supermix, and a steady rhythm that felt surprisingly good. By 22 minutes I was breaking a sweat. I finished at 30 minutes, 3.03 km. Not pushing it. Just showing up, moving, breathing.

30 minutes on the treadmill. My favourite kit, the West Germany shirt from Italia 90.

Then it was time for some yoga with Stephanie. We kept it gentle. Yin yoga, slow and supported. Four poses, all on the mat.

Positive rest. A way to let the nervous system settle before stretching. Allowing the spine to reset to its natural position.
Drawing knees in again, easing tension from the lower back and massaging the back of the pelvis, spine and back into the mat.
Supine twist. Gentle rotation, softening through the spine.
Caterpillar pose, using a step to raise my hips and meet the pose where I’m at.
Walking out feeling lighter. Hoodie on, good work done.

Now we’re home. Bit of housework, cuddles with Chipshop, pizza and beer lined up. A good session, and now a good rest.

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