Know thy limits

The clouds are playing around the peaks of Smørstabbtindene, but as we are approaching the summit of Storebjørn they pull aside to let the sun shine down on us. We have taken off our skis and are on our feet for the last few meters to the top. I breathe a little heavily and feel my heart race a little extra while my feet are working their way up through the snow. Finally, I am at the top plateau with the group. It is a glorious day for ski touring, and despite the endless row of skiers making their way up to Storebjørn this day at this particular moment we have the peak to ourselves. Standing up here again feels like an official recovery milestone. My heart rate drops back down and take in the sights of Jotunheimen's white-clad peaks against a blue sky. The gaze is drawn towards the neighboring peak Veslebjørn. There is an idea within the group that we will go up there after this. The thought is tempting. A trip up Veslebjørn will mean a new 2000 meter peak in the peak collection, and a new Smørstabbtind that can be "checked" off. But my body is tired and tomorrow theres another day of skiing that I don't want to miss out on. 

There is no harm in being active and get tired when you have lupus. Physical activity and exercise are strongly encouraged since the disease makes you are a little more prone to cardiovascular disease. Activity that strengthens the heart and lungs is beneficial. Cardio is also considered to be positive to battle the famous fatigue that I have heard so much about, but luckily not experienced yet. My hope is that by keeping the activity level up I can keep it at a bay for a little longer. It is recommended that you build up the shape gradually. Pushing too hard, too intensely, too fast can potentially lead to flare-ups. This is what's on the scale when Veslebjørn is over there and shouting: «Come on! Don't be a loser! You're not weak, are you? "

But am I actually able to go up on Veslebjørn today? Am I going to push it a little too far down if I do? The thoughts are weighed against the victory of getting a new top in the collection. In the end, I come to the conclusion that I am satisfied with conquering Storebjørn. We agree that I will set up a nice spot and take a break in the sun while the rest of the group continues on to Veslebjørn. An hour, two coffee cups and a roll of chocolate later, they show up tired and happy at my spot. And even though I feel a slight defeat of having to pass on Veslebjørn, my legs feels fresh and strong for the skiing down Leirbrean. Veslebjørn will still be there later, and as I swoosh down the powdery snow , I celebrate with a joyful squeal that preserving the energy for this, was exactly right today. 

Sources:
​Lupus Org UK https: //www.lupusuk.org.uk/lupus-and-exercise/ ​