Aly Raisman Is Not participating in the Tokyo Olympics, and That's Okay... #Selfcare

Mainstream  news falsely reported two-time American olympian, Aly Raisman is retiring. As the news started to air, Aly received an inquisitive call from her mother. She confirmed that she will not be competing in the Tokyo Olympics this year, but she did not use the word retire anywhere in her twitter statement. Long story short, Raisman just needs a minute! After the false claims of retirement, the gold medalist explained the last ten years has gone by in such a blur, she  feels the need to slow down and reflect. What’s the point of winning Gold medals if you don't set time out to reflect on the triumphs? A lot of us expect these champions to always be on, never letting up until they are known as the best of the best. Personally, I need several minutes after one gym sesh, so I can't imagine the blood, sweat, and tears that a two-time winning olympian sacrificed.

via Times of Israel

via Twitter

Raisman’s decision not to move is a lesson we all should take heed to. It reminds us that we are humans that need to recharge. Aly mentions unplugging from technology and making time to process it all. When focused on the gold, there is personal and emotional build-up that is put on the back burner; there are other aspects of life that need attention and it may take time to unravel. Love life, family life, all parts of life we manage on a day to day, Raisman is trying to get back to. She  wouldn't be able to do that if she had to start training for Tokyo. She felt time was just flying by, and the best thing anyone could do in that situation and bring it to a halt and let the mind catch up to the body. Aly is a reminder to always seek balance; she’s a champion in that field after all.

cover image via Alma