'Energy guzzlers are no longer welcome in my life'

When Chanice Janssens (31) was hit by a car while cycling, she developed all sorts of inexplicable, vague symptoms. She completely changed her life and subsequently felt much more energetic.

"I never slowed down. I worked about fifty hours a week as a hairdresser, did heavy strength training almost every day, and had a packed social calendar. Meanwhile, I didn't realize I was completely overdoing it.

The turning point came when I was hit by a car while cycling. Physically, nothing was wrong with me, but I kept having vague complaints. Mentally, I was also in a bad state. I had panic attacks, PTSD symptoms, and became depressed. Sometimes I would sleep twenty-two hours a day. I realized I had to do something to get myself back on track.

I started following all sorts of therapies to 'clear my head'. I still exercised, but not as fanatically. Most importantly, I learned to listen to my body: what do I need right now?

I came to the conclusion that there are things that give me energy and things that drain it. I tried to balance those things: nutrition, exercise, and rest.

I also became aware that certain spaces or people around me affected my energy. If you know how it works, you can do something about it.

I no longer allowed things and people that sucked my energy into my life. I noticed something happening to me. I no longer felt listless and tired; I got my energy back.

Now, I've turned my own experiences into my profession. I've become a trauma coach and help others balance their energy too.

Feeling good in your body and mind is the most important thing there is."