“So we can stay small, fragile, and insignificant. But femininity isn’t any of those things. It’s loud, inconvenient, and strong AF.” Dr. Stephanie Estima
By: Gabriela Yareliz
For months, I have been looking closely at fitness, wellness and where I want to go. Carefully weighing what trainers and platforms I want to invest in and looking at years of certain types of exercise. It’s been ten years of Pilates mixed in with other low-impact movements. These past two months, I have been trying something new and out of my comfort zone.
When I saw the Dr. Estima quote above in the middle of her larger newsletter, it really resonated with me. So much of the world (including wellness) works to keep women small. And I don’t think we are better for it.
More recent influential voices are encouraging women into strength, space and ferocity.
Things that have stayed with me over time:
-We need to lift progressively.
-All workouts shouldn’t be done lying down on a mat.
-Mobility is key to aging well.
-There should be some sort of acceleration for the heart and impact for the bones.
-Variety doesn’t work as well as repetition.
-Rest is integral to growth (for muscles and generally).
-Something is better than nothing.
-Glute strength is very important.
This year, I was excited to complete the Pvolve New Year’s Challenge. It has pumped me up to continue and ramp up the sweat and effort. This year, I am surrendering the small. It’s ok to be inconvenient— inconveniently strong.
GABRIELA YARELIZ 