Healing Isn’t Linear, Part Two

The Frustration Between Rest and Recovery

“Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is get up, take a shower, and start again — even if you go back to bed after.”
— Unknown

Some days are good. Some days… just getting out of the house feels like climbing a mountain.

I used to be the kind of woman who thrived on movement — work, workouts, errands, you name it. Now, there are days when doing the dishes, sweeping the floor, and making it to a chiropractor appointment completely wipes me out.

And I know I’m not alone in that.

Healing is humbling. It slows you down in ways that challenge everything you thought you knew about strength.

There are moments I look around and think, “This can’t be my life. I used to do so much more.” That thought can sting — especially for those of us who have always identified as capable, productive, and strong.

But here’s what I’ve learned:
Your body isn’t betraying you. It’s protecting you.

When you’ve been through something life-altering — whether it’s illness, burnout, grief, or a heart event — your nervous system has to find safety again. And safety doesn’t come from pushing harder. It comes from slowing down enough to listen.

So yes, some days I get things done and other days, the dishes are the win. The nap is the therapy. The walk from the couch to the kitchen is the workout.

And that’s okay.

Healing asks you to redefine success. It’s not about “getting back” to who you were, it’s about building trust with the version of you that’s here now.

Some days, your energy will surprise you. Other days, it will remind you that rest is still part of the process.

Neither means you’re failing. Both mean you’re healing. 🌿

If this resonates, know that you’re not alone on this journey. Subscribe to Vanessa’s Wellness Journey for reflections, science-backed calm tools, and stories that remind you progress isn’t measured by productivity. It’s measured by peace.