Norwegian Pole Vaulter Returns After Mononucleosis, Credits Meditation

Pole vaulter Embla Matilde Njerve, 19, is making a comeback after a prolonged period sidelined by mononucleosis, commonly known as kissing disease. Njerve attributes her recovery and return to competition to meditation, describing it as a turning point in overcoming the debilitating fatigue associated with the illness.

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I had a lot of potential, actually more than enough to set a personal best.

Njerve had been on track for a breakthrough season after setting a Norwegian junior indoor record in early 2025. However, her body soon gave out, leading to a diagnosis of mononucleosis. The illness, caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, resulted in long-lasting exhaustion, drastically reducing her energy levels from full training to struggling to attend school.

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I thought it was just a common cold at first. It wasn't until a few months later that we found out it was kissing disease.

After more than a year with little progress, Njerve sought alternative recovery methods. She found guidance in the theories of American author and neuroscientist Joe Dispenza, particularly his book "Becoming Supernatural." Njerve explains that she used meditation to reprogram her brain, essentially "tricking" her body into believing it was safe again after prolonged stress. This step-by-step approach, focusing on daily improvements and regulating her nervous system, gradually led to her regaining her form.

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I went from full training and competitions to barely having the energy to get to school. It was a big contrast.

Njerve is set to compete in the NMNM event at Trondheim Stadium on July 23, marking her official return. She is also preparing to travel to Eugene, Oregon, for the junior World Championships in August. Her journey highlights a unique path back to elite athletics, emphasizing mental resilience and unconventional recovery techniques.

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Joe Dispenza and the book 'Becoming Supernatural' helped me through meditation to reprogram my brain. All I did was 'trick' my body and brain into believing it was safe again after prolonged stress.