The Mind & Body Need Rest

In August I got to complete a very special triathlon, my family for the first time was able to be there & that meant the world to me! After completing my Olympic triathlon in August, I really felt that my body was depleted.  So I took a few weeks off & then began running again & training for my next half marathon which was the Boston Half in September. I really didn’t train much for it, but I must say it was the most fun & beautiful half marathon I have ever done! The view of the ocean was amazing weather was perfect the event support was like nothing I have ever experienced, but the best part is I got to run it with my amazing best friend Katy! 

After that run I took a whole 6 weeks off. I’m not saying don’t be active at all, just do something different so you don’t burn out physically mentally & emotionally.  I kept doing yoga and took long walks, but other than that the past 6 weeks have been time for rest, rebuild & revitalize.

I ran for the first time in 6 weeks yesterday & man I felt like I could accomplish the world, the first couple of miles are always the toughest I say but once I got going I felt like I could accomplish anything in life! I love that feeling & that is why I run! I feel more alive than I ever have and so excited for the next chapter/year of my life!

“The highest spiritual practice is self-observation without judgment.” –Swami Kripalu

Every day start your day by telling yourself, “Life is beautiful because of you.” I am so grateful for my wonderful supportive family and friends I am surrounded with! 

The light in me, bows to the light in you.

Road Run vs. Trail Run

I must start by saying I had no idea of how much more of a challenge trail running is than road running. I mean really what was I expecting? A paved path around mountainous park city with no elevation or incline? I don’t know why I didn’t think about it! Sometimes it’s better just not to know what you are getting into. A friend of mine convinced me to do a trail run in Park City, so why not. I did it. I did finish but learnt a bit in the process. 

Great no biggie, I’m always up for a challenge, right? Well next time I might want to be a bit more prepared. I really had no idea where to turn and how to go about training so I just trained for a road race & hit the trail.

I will start by saying there is a reason for Trails shoes! Trail shoes have better foot & ankle support, better for the terrain you are running on and will help you avoid slipping and rocks, plus they are water proof, for when you step in puddles of water & mud. 

In my run, I realized I was so focused on the path that I forgot to fuel. I hardly drank & didn’t fuel.

A few points I learned with the trail run:

1. Use proper gear – Trail shoes for a start.
2. Keep your eyes on the road.
3. Be aware of your surrounds, rocks puddles, mud, branches animals and others.
4. Make sure you know where you are going. One wrong turn & you can be out in the mountains all alone.
5. Don’t forget to fuel! Like I did.
6. But most importantly get out try it & have fun while running!