How to stay motovated when you can't do anything?

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I've had some medical issues & had a procedure done for it last week, I was told not to excerise for a few weeks (up to 5 weeks but atleast 3) until I'm completely healed so I won't bleed heavy, but I'm really tempted to go to the gym, I miss it and I'm getting behind on my goals. I know that I can just watch what I eat, but I'm afraid that I will lose the motovation if I wait that long. How do you keep motovated when it seems like there's not much you can do.

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  • JDMPWR
    JDMPWR Posts: 1,863 Member
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    You have any old pictures of yourself post any weight loss?
  • RyanEli
    RyanEli Posts: 20 Member
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    I am in the same position. I had surgery 2 weeks ago and can't exercise for 4 more weeks. A month seems like forever, but I have to just keep reminding myself that diet is the most important part of weight-loss and I can spend this time focusing on getting that in check. Sometimes you have to just be patient and do what you can given the circumstances.
  • VCStarr
    VCStarr Posts: 155
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    You could go for walks whenever possible as long as the doc permits...
    Can the doc check you to see if you've healed better than expected and can get back on it?
    If not, don't push it. You don't want to risk hurting yourself and having to be away from exercise even longer.
  • lefrance12
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    The good thing is you are already on MFP! Continue to track until you are well!! What is important is your healing process at this time. Patience. Working out will be there and as long as you are watching what you eat, you are not going to lose much in 4-6 weeks. Good Luck!!!
  • kellycasey5
    kellycasey5 Posts: 486 Member
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    Trust me on this and DO NOT exercise. The damage and risk to your body are not worth it, and if you develop complications not only are you risking your life but the setbacks would be considerable. I would try to revisit why you started this journey, focus on rest and healing your body, and surround yourself with loved ones. Life has many bumps along the way, but do not let 5 weeks deter you!

    Thoughts on activities: research healthy recipes, organize photos and scrapbooking (I'm a fan but takes too much time), handmade gifts for the holidays (candles, jarred preserves, spice packets for soups/chilis or other recipes with a recipe card attached make nice gift toppers, homemade gift wrap made from brown mailing paper stamped with cutouts from apples/ potatoes dipped in paints or leaf and bark rubbings with colorful crayons, handmade jewelry (they have kits at all craft stores and it is surpisingly easy to make beautiful necklaces and earrings and many beads as well, or you could look online for kits), or knitting? These are all things I would love to do if only I had the time! Good luck to you!
  • CricketKate
    CricketKate Posts: 3,657 Member
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    I'm in the same position. I had knee surgery last week that ended up being a little more involved than the Dr's first thought. I made a similare plea for motivational help this morning. The only thing that I can say is take it easy and focus on nourishing your body with good foods even if you can't strengthen it with good exercise. I hope that you're feeling better soon. We can both do this!:flowerforyou:
  • SamiRose
    SamiRose Posts: 118 Member
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    I've had 3 serious invasive surgeries in the past 6 years (Lumbar Spine, Knee, and shoulder about 8 months ago)...so I can REALLY RELATE!

    Were you assigned rehab exercises? Those are sooooo important! and trust me, you get a workout!!!! by doing your rehab, you'll increase your recovery time, and give you that needed exercise!!

    Can I ask what you had surgery in? I am a certified Personal Trainer and Exercise Specialist, so I could help you develop a great low intensity at home program if you would like.

    -Sam-
  • superkel317
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    I would say to just keep your goal in mind and just do what you can. Go for short walks if you can, or maybe just try to watch what you eat if that's all you can do. Every little bit helps, so don't lose your focus! You don't want to push your body beyond what it's able to do at this point.
  • demsky_04
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    It is a lady part that needed worked on lol.