Mahima Makwana on recovering from a slip disc: Everything had to pause so I could heal

Mahima Makwana has paused work as she recovers from a slip disc she sustained while attempting the popular 75 Hard Challenge. The fitness programme requires participants to follow five daily rules for 75 consecutive days, with even a single missed task meaning they must restart from Day 1.

While the challenge strengthened her discipline, the actress admits she overlooked one crucial aspect: recovery. The actress, who will soon be seen in Musafir Cafe, says, “I had been doing the challenge for about a month, but in a slightly softer version. Looking back, I realised I was so focused on completing it that I wasn’t listening to my body enough. I would often work out at odd hours and compromise on my sleep. Trying to keep up with the routine alongside my hectic schedule eventually took a toll on my health, and my lower back gave up.

” The diagnosis came as a complete shock to her, who has always maintained an active lifestyle. She says, “I honestly didn’t see this coming because I’ve always been physically active. I neglected recovery, which started with persistent backaches and eventually led to the injury. I was taken aback and scared, and my only priority became healing.” She adds, “However, I believe in the bigger plan that the universe has for us.

The pain keeps fluctuating, and I’ve been advised to remain mostly horizontal for two weeks. Between proper sleep, physiotherapy, and rest, the recovery will take time. Life, routine and work, everything has paused. No matter how badly I want to speed up the process, the body will recover at its own pace, and I have to respect that.” Reflecting on the emotional impact of the setback, she says, “It definitely takes a toll on you mentally because everything else has to wait while you focus on getting better. This phase has made me realise that health should always be our first priority. It changes the way you look at life.”