Gemotions

The weightlifting coach wanted me to try a new exercise, a movement I'd never tried before. I felt the familiar knot of tension forming in my stomach as he explained it. My usual routine, now gone. My body stiffened, and I looked at his hands, watching his every move.

The gym felt different that day. Heavy. The clank of weights, usually a source of motivation, now seemed menacing. Every muscle in my body felt tense, poised, ready for a fight I didn't understand. The mirror reflected back a stranger, and I felt a tremor run through my spine. The air felt thin, and I had to focus on my breathing.