Overcoming Your Personal Twisties: A Journey Toward Better Health and Resilience

As we witnessed during the Tokyo Olympics, Simone Biles, a celebrated gymnast, faced a formidable challenge that shook the world—overcoming the “twisties.” This term describes a sudden loss of muscle memory and spatial awareness in gymnastics, which can turn even the most basic skills into dangerous maneuvers. Despite this setback, Simone persevered and emerged as one of the greatest of all time (GOAT) in the sport, as she showcased at the Paris Olympics.

Simone’s story is not just about gymnastics; it’s a powerful metaphor for the challenges we all face in our lives, especially regarding our health and fitness. Whether you’re battling a chronic illness, recovering from surgery, or simply trying to improve your overall well-being, each of us encounters our own version of the twisties—those moments when we feel disoriented, lost, or unable to move forward.

For me, these twisties have come in the form of spinal reconstructive surgery. Every day, I am learning how to walk again, and each step forward is a victory. It’s not about becoming the greatest of all time in a traditional sense, but about becoming a better version of myself each day. I draw inspiration from stellar athletes like Simone, whose resilience and determination serve as a reminder that progress, no matter how small, is still progress.

But it’s not just elite athletes who inspire me—it’s also the everyday heroes who are committed to their health and wellness despite the obstacles they face. You don’t have to be an Olympic champion to make strides in your own health journey. Every time you choose to eat a little healthier, move a little more, or manage stress a little better, you’re conquering your twisties.

We all have the capacity to be a force for our own health. The key is to recognize that our challenges, while difficult, are not insurmountable. Like Simone, who trained her mind and body to overcome the twisties, you too can train yourself to overcome your health challenges, no matter how daunting they may seem.

Every step you take towards better health—whether it’s recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or simply striving for a healthier lifestyle—is a step toward becoming a stronger, more resilient version of yourself. Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about progress. And progress is made one small step at a time.

So, let Simone’s story inspire you, but also let your own journey motivate you. You may not become the greatest of all time in the eyes of the world, but you can become the greatest version of yourself today and tomorrow. Get the help you need and dig deep to be that force for your own health, so you can inspire and help others. That’s what truly matters.