A day after each boxing lesson, I walked a bit more complicated and difficult than intended. Sitting hurt, standing too, and it felt like a burning cable was running through my leg towards my toe. I was allowed to go to the back day at the hospital for an MRI and the expert judgment of the specialists. You don't know that a back day exists until you actually go to a back day. The verdict? A hernia. I was really done with that. I am now four years further, two hernias richer, and a lot wiser.

What to do? Listen to your body and don't rush anything. What not to do? The opposite. That's why I promised myself to only practice yoga and Pilates this year. Starting with yin yoga, also known as lazy-people yoga. God, what a pleasure. But then I discovered something that is even better for your back: restorative yoga. This is exactly what you think it is: yoga to recover. You are not allowed to do anything that doesn't feel good in your body. You stay in a position even longer than in yin yoga if possible, and you are allowed to support yourself in every way with props. It is purely and solely meant to make time for your body, to be kind, and to relax. Besides restorative and yin, I have also started a gentle flow yoga class this week. A bit more active, but still gentle on the body without suffering. Every time I walk outside, I feel two centimeters taller, and that really helps with back pain. I personally lie in the position for minutes at Helder Yoga in Scheveningen (really a very nice studio, if you live nearby), but in every city, there is a restorative yoga class to be found. Your body will be grateful.