Join us in this compelling episode as we explore Simon Lewis's diverse career journey from teaching and pastoring to becoming a physiotherapist.
Simon opens up about his personal experiences with burnout and his transition between various fields, driven by a passion for helping others.
Discover strategies for managing multiple roles, including maintaining personal health and balancing family life.
Dive into the science of pain, the body's protective mechanisms, and effective recovery strategies.
Learn about the significance of incremental changes, mindset shifts, and practical tips to redefine pain and physical activity for a healthier, more balanced life.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
01:23 Career Journey and Burnout
05:57 Transition to Physiotherapy
10:09 Balancing Career and Family
13:28 Understanding Stress and Recovery
21:30 Pain and Protection
29:12 Understanding Movement and Pain
30:44 The Rule of 10: Managing Pain and Effort
33:51 The Psychology of Pain
37:00 Rewiring Pain Perception
45:08 Practical Tips for Pain Management
51:46 Conclusion and Future Topics
Show Notes:
Introduction: Embracing Positive Change
In our latest “Built for Adventure” series episode, we engage with Simon Lewis on burnout, pain management, and growth.
Simon shares key lessons from his varied career, from teaching to physiotherapy, offering practical steps that inspire action towards balance and well-being.
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Action Step 1: Recognise and Address Burnout
Simon's journey through different careers highlights the impact of burnout on both mental and physical health. Here's how you can tackle it:
* Identify Burnout Signs: Pay attention to feelings of exhaustion, irritability, and lack of motivation.
* Set Boundaries: Learn to say no and manage workloads to prevent overcommitment.
* Prioritise Recovery: Make time for rest, relaxation, and activities that recharge you mentally and emotionally.
By acknowledging the early signs of burnout, you can take proactive steps to achieve a healthier work-life balance.
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Action Step 2: Reframe Your Understanding of Pain
Simon introduces a new perspective on pain as a protective mechanism. Here's how you can apply this understanding:
* Alter Your Mindset: See pain as a protective response, not a sign of damage.
* Monitor Stress Levels: Use the “stress reservoir” analogy to evaluate if your recovery outlets (like sleep and nutrition) are open.
* Practice Gradual Movement: Engage in activities within your comfort level and slowly increase intensity over time.
These steps will help you approach pain management with more awareness and control.
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Action Step 3: Foster a Mind-Body Connection
Understanding the interplay between mindset and physical health is crucial for well-being. Consider the following actions:
* Challenge Beliefs: Acknowledge and adjust limiting beliefs about pain and movement.
* Seek Education: Learn about pain science to deepen your understanding of how mindset affects physical health.
* Experiment with Flexibility: Adopt a flexible approach to exercise, embracing variations in movement and effort that feel right for you.
Cultivating a positive mindset and aligning it with physical practices can lead to holistic improvements in health and lifestyle.
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Conclusion: Building a Life of Balance and Fulfilment
Simon’s insights offer practical steps for managing burnout, reframing pain, and fostering a mind-body connection.
By integrating these into your life, you can work towards a state of balance and fulfilment.
Take small actions today that contribute to a continually improving tomorrow, aligning with your personal goals and capacities.
Explore more topics on personal growth and well-being in our forthcoming episodes, offering tools and insights to navigate life’s adventures with greater assurance and purpose.
