So, I guess this post is the actual end of Week 7. I woke up with my nephews at about 6:45 am. This gave me time to get them ready and get my yoga practice in for the morning. I think it might have been the first time they had seen yoga. It was really easy to try and rationalize why I didn't have time. But it only takes 20 minutes and I knew my body would thank me for it later. Then I dropped my nephews off at my mom's house, stopped at Sheetz for a small bottled water, and set off for Sand Run Trail. As a side note, I only bought the bottled water because I don't have a bottle small enough to carry while run/walking. I don't like buying plastic and usually carry around my large reusable water bottle which is not good for carrying. This means I need to purchase a small reusable water bottle for runs.
I got to the trail at 8 am. One wouldn't think that this is much later than 7:30 am. Well, what a difference a half hour makes! I had to wait for a spot to park, it was warmer, and the trail was very crowded. Also, my trusty friend Allison who is typically at the trail before me was not there. There was one morning where she completely forgot to get up. So, trying to stay positive, I just told myself that I would do the best that I could. That I would still be able to do it even if she wasn't able to join me. I think I even kept repeating. But I decided to give her a few minutes before I started out on my own. And she arrived a couple of minutes after that.
She was admittedly a bit cranky today due to a lack of sleep. And I was just happy to have my friend run/walk with me. We did our warm-up, stretches, and I took a bathroom break before we got started. Okay, if you really want to know how much of a dork I am, here goes. . . I want to know if the ammonia smell in the port-o-potties is from all the "waste" or from their cleaning supplies. It is sooooo strong. It is hard to believe that that is normal compost smell. Anyways, I need to finish my blog before I go searching about that topic.
Armed with our water and electrolyte gel chew thingys, we were off. I was pretty energetic and pumped to be setting out on our 8 mile adventure. I think I went a little fast and hard that first mile. I certainly wasn't able to maintain that chipper pace. It also seemed like people were not as friendly at 8 am in the morning or something. I think the first 5 or 6 people that I said good morning to ignored me and had no response at all. Some people may wave or nod, if talking isn't able to be done while running. But even the ones that weren't wearing head phones. I don't like that feeling when I feel invisible. But I was pretty determined to greet everyone on the trail. Because I seemed so eager and chipper, Allison deemed me the trail prom queen. The only time in my life that will ever be uttered! It was hysterical. Have I ever mentioned how hard it is run while laughing? It is very difficult!
It seemed that first 2 miles were pretty smooth. Still tough on the hills, but smooth otherwise. The section of Sand Run is pretty hilly. I hear that the actual Akron Roadrunner is pretty flat for the Half-Marathon. I liked hearing that info! We passed the 2.5 mile marker, and Allison asked me if I remembered when we thought that was exciting. I do. It was fun to be able to push past what we thought was possible!
Very grateful for the sunshine today even if it made it a little more challenging. We made it to the end of mile 3. The trail we have been using is only 6 miles round trip. So we decided to run the last half mile two times to make up for our 2 extra miles today. It seemed safest to stay on the end of the trail, so we couldn't back out of the higher miles being closer to the beginning of the trail. Doing it this way made for even more hills though. We hadn't really planned on that part. It reinforced our positive thinking/talk though. Continuing to use phrases such as; "I'm gliding", "I love the way I feel when I am done", "Every step gives me benefits", "Endorphins help me relax", etc. It does help. Also, imagining the people ahead of us pulling us forward helps.
One of the funniest things that happened today, as we were running along the trail we came around a bend. On the other side was a young girl running towards us while singing. I have no idea what she was singing. But she was singing, out of tune and enjoying every second of it. And you know what, she stopped singing just to say hello back to us! It was awesome. I think she cheered us up for a good half-mile. She also inspired us to have our own trail karaoke. Yes, it may have been Miley Cyrus's "Party in the USA", but it was upbeat, we knew the words, and it was funny as well as fun. I think we definitely got our share of funny looks, but we didn't care. We had just finished 5 miles and had 3 more to go.
I think we have become regulars. There were quite a few people who are starting to look familiar. This is pretty cool. I never really thought I would become a regular on a running trail! At mile 6, Allison's knees started bothering her, so we slowed our pace and increased our walking stints. She toughed it out and we ran/walked through mile 7. Near the beginning of mile 8, she decided she needed to give her knees a break. So we walked the rest of our route. Jeff Galloway emphasizes that it is more important to stay together than to run faster during long runs. So, I stuck with Allison to the end of our walk. And we did our cool down walk, then stretches.
I iced my knees. I also made sure I moved my legs around today while I was driving to and from Canton. Took some arnica and Ibuprofen. My muscles are somewhat sore, but not anything that is going to keep me from doing my daily life.
I don't know if I can convey how grateful I am to be healthy enough to be able to do my training. Grateful to have had all of the support, all of the experiences that have helped me get to this point, grateful to have the physical ability to run/walk, grateful that my yoga practice helps me mentally and physically be able to do everything in my day, grateful for the trails, grateful for Allison, grateful for all my training cheerleaders-Tony, Jana, Shana, Cassie, Julie, Scott and Michelle. Grateful. Namaste.
Showing posts with label Yoga. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Yoga. Show all posts
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Rejuvenating Evening
This morning when I woke up I did my yoga practice like normal. I was really unsure whether I should do my walk/run today, because of my talk with a running mentor. He emphasized how important it was for me to have my knee checked out by my doctor. He said that he has know runners that will train through an injury and then they seriously injure themselves which results in being off for 6-8 months. I really do not want to have that happen or cause anymore pain to my body. So, I chose to wait until after I got off work and decide later.
I also had already planned to go to this meeting that a friend was holding at Munroe Falls Park. She said that it was for anyone interested in running, biking or triathlon. Okay, maybe a triathlon isn't in my near future, but I was interested. In the email that I got, she just said to show up. I packed my bag with a suit, and my running clothes because I would have to go straight from work. I wasn't really sure what was going to happen. I honestly thought that is was going to be more of a talking info session. But it was held at a park where there was a fee, so I was really up for anything. The park has a big lake, trails, tennis courts and road that goes all the way around the lake.
I found the group that met and there were 4 men and 3 other women. My friend and one of the other women were experience triathletes, and so were 2 of the men. I know that the third woman and I were inexperienced. It was great to have people that were willing to teach and show me how to do things. The next thing I know, I'm changing into my suit. We are going to swim laps. I'm so grateful for having had experience swimming laps! We had to do 8 laps to complete a mile while swimming. We got 3 in before they blew the whistle on us for a break. If my math is correct, we did at least 1/3 of a mile. Then the inexperienced triathletes went to change into our running clothes. One of the experienced runners had a knee injury as well, so she agreed to run at my pace with me. I was extremely grateful because my pace was A LOT slower than everyone else's! It was great to get to know Julie and make our way around the lake which was at least 1 mile or more. It was sunny, it was cooling off because it was evening, and it was beautiful!
I learned several things this evening. One is that I should never run on a treadmill, black top or concrete. They are too hard and don't have enough give to them which can cause a lot issues in your knees, hips, feet, etc. Second, I shouldn't run heel to toe. Julie said that every time I put my heel down it's like using breaks on your body AND 3 times your body weight. Then your body has to gear itself back up every step. So, I need to step more in the middle of my foot and keep my feet under my body. The third thing that I learned was that I need to keep my head in the water, as well as, my shoulders to protect my neck and keep my body straight in the water instead of slanted. Keeping my head and shoulders in the water will not only save me from neck pain, but also increase my speed.
It was such a rejuvenating night. I met new people, learned things I didn't know, and got to work out with other people who really enjoy it! It was exactly what I needed, right when I needed it. Thank you to Cassie for including me in your mass email! Oh, the other thing that I learned was to not say that my body is angry at me, but to say that it is grateful to be used. I had said that my pec was angry at me for swimming, and Julie suggested saying that my muscles are grateful to be used and that I have nerve endings there that are happy to be acknowledged. It was fun. It's 5 weeks into my training, I'm having knee issues, and I was able to swim and run without any severe pain~ plus it was enjoyable. It was great night! Now I need to surf Craigslist for a bicycle, go swimsuit shopping, buy goggles and a watch. And not forget to do yoga! Namaste.
I also had already planned to go to this meeting that a friend was holding at Munroe Falls Park. She said that it was for anyone interested in running, biking or triathlon. Okay, maybe a triathlon isn't in my near future, but I was interested. In the email that I got, she just said to show up. I packed my bag with a suit, and my running clothes because I would have to go straight from work. I wasn't really sure what was going to happen. I honestly thought that is was going to be more of a talking info session. But it was held at a park where there was a fee, so I was really up for anything. The park has a big lake, trails, tennis courts and road that goes all the way around the lake.
I found the group that met and there were 4 men and 3 other women. My friend and one of the other women were experience triathletes, and so were 2 of the men. I know that the third woman and I were inexperienced. It was great to have people that were willing to teach and show me how to do things. The next thing I know, I'm changing into my suit. We are going to swim laps. I'm so grateful for having had experience swimming laps! We had to do 8 laps to complete a mile while swimming. We got 3 in before they blew the whistle on us for a break. If my math is correct, we did at least 1/3 of a mile. Then the inexperienced triathletes went to change into our running clothes. One of the experienced runners had a knee injury as well, so she agreed to run at my pace with me. I was extremely grateful because my pace was A LOT slower than everyone else's! It was great to get to know Julie and make our way around the lake which was at least 1 mile or more. It was sunny, it was cooling off because it was evening, and it was beautiful!
I learned several things this evening. One is that I should never run on a treadmill, black top or concrete. They are too hard and don't have enough give to them which can cause a lot issues in your knees, hips, feet, etc. Second, I shouldn't run heel to toe. Julie said that every time I put my heel down it's like using breaks on your body AND 3 times your body weight. Then your body has to gear itself back up every step. So, I need to step more in the middle of my foot and keep my feet under my body. The third thing that I learned was that I need to keep my head in the water, as well as, my shoulders to protect my neck and keep my body straight in the water instead of slanted. Keeping my head and shoulders in the water will not only save me from neck pain, but also increase my speed.
It was such a rejuvenating night. I met new people, learned things I didn't know, and got to work out with other people who really enjoy it! It was exactly what I needed, right when I needed it. Thank you to Cassie for including me in your mass email! Oh, the other thing that I learned was to not say that my body is angry at me, but to say that it is grateful to be used. I had said that my pec was angry at me for swimming, and Julie suggested saying that my muscles are grateful to be used and that I have nerve endings there that are happy to be acknowledged. It was fun. It's 5 weeks into my training, I'm having knee issues, and I was able to swim and run without any severe pain~ plus it was enjoyable. It was great night! Now I need to surf Craigslist for a bicycle, go swimsuit shopping, buy goggles and a watch. And not forget to do yoga! Namaste.
Week 5: Able to run again!
Monday, the 27th, was absolutely awesome. I got to do a 25 min. walk/run at my original slower pace, but I was able to do it! I still had some pain in my right knee. Not enough to stop, but enough to be concerned about. So, I now have scheduled myself an appointment with an orthopedic doctor. Sadly, I'm pretty sure that my 9 year-old iPod actually bit the dust. It's tragic. I think I may have to have a memorial service for it. So this run was a la Channel 3. Luckily, I got to watch The Doctors show and the beginning of Ellen. Let's face it, Ellen is pretty hilarious and how could I not be inspired while watching Ellen trying to learn a hip hop dance and perform live on TV.
The other noteworthy experience during my day at the gym was while stretching. I've recently incorporated a hamstring stretch into my warm-up and cool down. It has me putting my leg up on a bar while standing and resting my heel on the bar. I was able to do this at the trail that I run on on the weekend and on the side of the track at the gym. This time I was stretching at the mirror where there are double bars. I stood there for seriously 30 seconds trying to figure out how I was going to do my said hamstring stretch. 30 seconds may not seem like a long time, but when there are other people around working out, stretching, etc. It feels like forever. The top bar was definitely too high for me to stretch on, but the second one was fine. The only problem was that they weren't staggered and they are pretty close together. Enter, another woman stretching who I watched out of the corner of my eye just to see how she was going to maneuver these bars. I almost laughed out loud in the middle of all those people. All she did was slide her foot under the top bar and rest her heel on the bottom one. Seriously, it was simple. Thank you to random woman stretcher who was able to save me from my brain short circuiting!
I have still continued my morning yoga. I can do a squat without my knees being in pain or way to tight. I feel much stronger in my legs during everyday activity and while running. Still taking it a day at a time with stretching. It is nice because now I pretty much have my yoga routine memorized. So, I can practice it while watching something else, or if I'm not at home and don't have my DVD. I just checked out a book about Qigong which I may start incorporating into my daily life. It is completely new to me, but the book is very descriptive and there are pictures, so we will see. I don't think there are any Qigong classes in this area. Either way, I am really, really grateful for yoga to help me maintain my flexibility and strength. Namaste.
The other noteworthy experience during my day at the gym was while stretching. I've recently incorporated a hamstring stretch into my warm-up and cool down. It has me putting my leg up on a bar while standing and resting my heel on the bar. I was able to do this at the trail that I run on on the weekend and on the side of the track at the gym. This time I was stretching at the mirror where there are double bars. I stood there for seriously 30 seconds trying to figure out how I was going to do my said hamstring stretch. 30 seconds may not seem like a long time, but when there are other people around working out, stretching, etc. It feels like forever. The top bar was definitely too high for me to stretch on, but the second one was fine. The only problem was that they weren't staggered and they are pretty close together. Enter, another woman stretching who I watched out of the corner of my eye just to see how she was going to maneuver these bars. I almost laughed out loud in the middle of all those people. All she did was slide her foot under the top bar and rest her heel on the bottom one. Seriously, it was simple. Thank you to random woman stretcher who was able to save me from my brain short circuiting!
I have still continued my morning yoga. I can do a squat without my knees being in pain or way to tight. I feel much stronger in my legs during everyday activity and while running. Still taking it a day at a time with stretching. It is nice because now I pretty much have my yoga routine memorized. So, I can practice it while watching something else, or if I'm not at home and don't have my DVD. I just checked out a book about Qigong which I may start incorporating into my daily life. It is completely new to me, but the book is very descriptive and there are pictures, so we will see. I don't think there are any Qigong classes in this area. Either way, I am really, really grateful for yoga to help me maintain my flexibility and strength. Namaste.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Week 4: Low Key
Week 4 started out with a 30 min. walk/run on Monday, 20th. I also worked in my crunches. I did my walk/run at my original slow pace. It was difficult to be running slower, but for the sake of my knees I figured it was worth it! Wednesday, I was still pretty nervous to walk/run. My knees continued to feel better, but they were still sore. Then I was blessed with a 30 min. sports massage by my friend, Shana Jane Steinhouse. She is a miracle worker. I decided to post pone my Wed. walk/run. On Thursday, I did a 10 min. walk/run, crunches. I'm continuing to do yoga every day and extra stretches to work on my tight hamstrings. Apparently, tight hamstrings can be a major cause of knee pain. Later in the evening, I did about a 50 min. walk with a friend. It was great to just walk and talk. Friday I noticed that my every day movements seem to be getting stronger which is very nice. I have a huge fear of having to quit this half-marathon training. On the other hand, it is also difficult to back off and go slower/shorter to wait for my knees to heal. But I'm trying my best at practicing.
So, Saturday's long run was 2.5 miles. My usual long run partner actually forgot to get up. It was funny. But thankfully, another friend showed up. She also brought along her Boston Terrier/Pug mix to enjoy our morning run with us. I also was still trying to go easy. So, I went pretty slow on my run interval, and took longer walk breaks. And we actually did 3 miles. As there are no 1/4 mile markers. So, Rocky lived it up on the trail. It sniffed everyone and wanted to meet every other dog on the trail. He doesn't seem to have the best manners on the trail, he's a newbie. Most people seemed to like Rocky, there were others that looked like they were going to completely trip over him, but there were no injuries incurred. It was also hard for me because my friend and Rocky had a quicker pace than I did when running. But as long I envisioned a string between the two of us with her pulling me forward, it wasn't bad. Plus, I was just glad to be able to part of my 3 mile walk/run.
It is very easy for me to blow off my stretching and yoga, because it doesn't take that long. And I like to try and tell myself that it doesn't really make that big of a difference. But from the improvements that I've made, it is has to be making a difference. Plus every stretching, and running book that I read usually suggests the exact stretches that are in my yoga practice. So, I have only missed one day in the last week. It is definitely practice. I really don't like when things are the same all the time, and usually as long as I tell myself that I only have to do it for today, then I can do it with ease. I'm still dealing with a lot of thoughts and mind-racing while doing yoga. I keep telling myself that that will get better with time. And that I just need to keep focusing on the moment.
For now, I'm still in the Half-Marathon game. Til next time, Namaste.
So, Saturday's long run was 2.5 miles. My usual long run partner actually forgot to get up. It was funny. But thankfully, another friend showed up. She also brought along her Boston Terrier/Pug mix to enjoy our morning run with us. I also was still trying to go easy. So, I went pretty slow on my run interval, and took longer walk breaks. And we actually did 3 miles. As there are no 1/4 mile markers. So, Rocky lived it up on the trail. It sniffed everyone and wanted to meet every other dog on the trail. He doesn't seem to have the best manners on the trail, he's a newbie. Most people seemed to like Rocky, there were others that looked like they were going to completely trip over him, but there were no injuries incurred. It was also hard for me because my friend and Rocky had a quicker pace than I did when running. But as long I envisioned a string between the two of us with her pulling me forward, it wasn't bad. Plus, I was just glad to be able to part of my 3 mile walk/run.
It is very easy for me to blow off my stretching and yoga, because it doesn't take that long. And I like to try and tell myself that it doesn't really make that big of a difference. But from the improvements that I've made, it is has to be making a difference. Plus every stretching, and running book that I read usually suggests the exact stretches that are in my yoga practice. So, I have only missed one day in the last week. It is definitely practice. I really don't like when things are the same all the time, and usually as long as I tell myself that I only have to do it for today, then I can do it with ease. I'm still dealing with a lot of thoughts and mind-racing while doing yoga. I keep telling myself that that will get better with time. And that I just need to keep focusing on the moment.
For now, I'm still in the Half-Marathon game. Til next time, Namaste.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Training Plan
In my obsessive-compulsive way, I successfully checked out several books about running marathons from my local library. I love books. I really do. The ones that have helped the most so far are Marathon: You Can Do It by Jeff Galloway and The Nonrunner's Marathon Guide for Women: Get Off Your Butt and On With Your Training by Dawn Dais. The book by Dawn Dais has had me laughing so loudly that I wonder if my upstairs neighbor can hear me! Her take on running is definitely from that of someone who doesn't do it for fun. I will have to share some quotes, as they are worth sharing! And Jeff Galloway, well, what can I say? I think the man is a running genius! Seriously, I'm pretty sure that he was the first person to implement the run/walk method. This is extremely important to me, because I want to run injury free. My body is very important to me. I like being active, I like being able to do downward dog, I like being able to do somersaults with my nieces, and I like to be able to walk. It is imperative to stay injury free.
I'm using the Galloway Run/Walk method to train, and my focus is to finish. It is difficult to listen to all of the experts, because I really want to be able to do a 10 minute mile today. Not in 3 or 4 months, today! So, I'm working on following the suggestions from those that have experience. One of those suggestions is that first timer's focus on finishing, not a time goal. With this said, I'm running, which is more of a jog right now than a run, at a pace that is pretty comfortable for me. I use comfortable loosely, since running doesn't necessarily feel comfortable.
I will try to catch you up to date without writing a novel. Last week I walked a few times on the treadmill and I organized a walk at Sand Run Park this past Saturday for a 3 mile hike. We ended up hiking for an hour and 35 min. I think we actually did 4 or 5 miles, but that's okay. It was great to have support with friends and have people to talk to. Let me also stress how great it was to be in the woods! We saw live chipmunks(unfortunately, dead ones too.)
The plan will be to do 30 min. run/walk - two times a week(Mon/Wed) and then do my long run on Saturday. According to Galloway, this is what I'm supposed to do. No more, no less! This is so hard for my over-acheiving and addict mind. I already had to talk myself out of running more than that on Monday. So this past Monday, I did a 10 min warm-up, stretched my major muscles, then completed my 30 min. I finished with a 20 min. walk to cool down. It's amazing how much one can sweat, and how hot I got. It went good. Nothing hurt while I was running, and I even did 10 min. of crunches when I was done. I also am listening to the info about making sure you are hydrated and eating properly. I don't think that I've had a diet soda in over 8 or 9 days. This is a record. For those of you who know me well, I heart diet soda. My heart may not heart diet soda, but I do.
I did go to my Free Akron Yoga class last night. It was wonderful to do yoga in a group and see all of my amazing yogi friends! What a great community! It was difficult because I have a wrist injury that makes Chataranga(Plank Pose) pretty close to impossible. And we are preparing for the 108 sun salutations that will be done at the Summer Solstice event in the CVNP that is in 13 days. But I modified and it still felt good. I love the positive energy and that people aren't afraid to laugh. Oh, and my wrist is surely not strong enough for crane pose. It is when you balance on both of your hands flat on the ground, and rest your knees on the back of your elbows. Apparently, Carrie has a book that says it's easy. Google it and you will see just how easy it looks! Anyways, it's nice to be able to notice how much strength I have, even though I haven't been practicing regularly. And where I have strength, I really do need to keep practicing to become more flexible again.
This morning, I got out of bed at 6:54 am. I had set my alarm for much earlier then that, but it never went off. It never went off because although I changed my alarm time, I didn't turn my alarm on! My higher power is pretty great, because I still woke up at 6:50. That is a very cool thing to me. I'm not typically a morning person. But the more healthy stuff I do for myself, the more I am a morning person. So, drank a glass of water, ate a tablespoon of almond butter, and drank about 1/2 cup of bolthouse green goodness juice, then I got dressed and walked over to the Natatorium. I did about 8 min. walking warm-up, stretch, then got on treadmill #1 for my 30 min. walk/run. I had to stop two times. Once, to go to the bathroom and then again to drink more water from fountain. Really, I am amazed by the sweating! I can't remember the last time I actually had sweat dripping from my face. Not counting the breaks, I did 2.1 miles. Monday, I did about 1.75 in my 30 min walk/run. I know it's not much of an increase, but it's something. And I will certainly take it. I did the same crunches routine that I did on Monday. I cut my cool-down walk to about 8 min. because I had to go to the bathroom again.
Today I realized two big things. One is that I really prefer music to Law and Order while running. I finally brought my iPod with me to the gym today. I don't have cable at my apartment, and I love Law and Order, so typically when walking it's great to be able to watch USA channel. But what a difference listening to music makes! P!nk, Journey, Sheryl Crow, it was the perfect line up. Plus, I don't think that crime shows actually improve or add anything to my life, let alone my exercising. The second thing that I learned today is that I think my body will be able to handle this. It's my mind that concerns me. It's scarey to say that about my body because I feel like I have beaten up my body so much. But my mind didn't want to keep going like it did on Monday. I was able to implement some of the positive sayings that Galloway suggests in his book. I think his book has at least 3 chapters alone on the mental aspects of the marathon. So, I may be re-reading those again. I could definitely use some positive brainwashing, as he calls it.
I also reminded myself today that I was only doing my run today. I kept re-directing my thinking from the half marathon to today. And for today, I have completed my training. I get a little stiff if I sit too long. But other than that, nothing in my body is on fire. Well, except for maybe my spirit. I haven't felt this alive and healthy for a while. I'm hoping to be able to do some stretching again before I go to bed to help with the soreness.
Stay tuned to see how my 4 miler goes on Friday.
I'm using the Galloway Run/Walk method to train, and my focus is to finish. It is difficult to listen to all of the experts, because I really want to be able to do a 10 minute mile today. Not in 3 or 4 months, today! So, I'm working on following the suggestions from those that have experience. One of those suggestions is that first timer's focus on finishing, not a time goal. With this said, I'm running, which is more of a jog right now than a run, at a pace that is pretty comfortable for me. I use comfortable loosely, since running doesn't necessarily feel comfortable.
I will try to catch you up to date without writing a novel. Last week I walked a few times on the treadmill and I organized a walk at Sand Run Park this past Saturday for a 3 mile hike. We ended up hiking for an hour and 35 min. I think we actually did 4 or 5 miles, but that's okay. It was great to have support with friends and have people to talk to. Let me also stress how great it was to be in the woods! We saw live chipmunks(unfortunately, dead ones too.)
The plan will be to do 30 min. run/walk - two times a week(Mon/Wed) and then do my long run on Saturday. According to Galloway, this is what I'm supposed to do. No more, no less! This is so hard for my over-acheiving and addict mind. I already had to talk myself out of running more than that on Monday. So this past Monday, I did a 10 min warm-up, stretched my major muscles, then completed my 30 min. I finished with a 20 min. walk to cool down. It's amazing how much one can sweat, and how hot I got. It went good. Nothing hurt while I was running, and I even did 10 min. of crunches when I was done. I also am listening to the info about making sure you are hydrated and eating properly. I don't think that I've had a diet soda in over 8 or 9 days. This is a record. For those of you who know me well, I heart diet soda. My heart may not heart diet soda, but I do.
I did go to my Free Akron Yoga class last night. It was wonderful to do yoga in a group and see all of my amazing yogi friends! What a great community! It was difficult because I have a wrist injury that makes Chataranga(Plank Pose) pretty close to impossible. And we are preparing for the 108 sun salutations that will be done at the Summer Solstice event in the CVNP that is in 13 days. But I modified and it still felt good. I love the positive energy and that people aren't afraid to laugh. Oh, and my wrist is surely not strong enough for crane pose. It is when you balance on both of your hands flat on the ground, and rest your knees on the back of your elbows. Apparently, Carrie has a book that says it's easy. Google it and you will see just how easy it looks! Anyways, it's nice to be able to notice how much strength I have, even though I haven't been practicing regularly. And where I have strength, I really do need to keep practicing to become more flexible again.
This morning, I got out of bed at 6:54 am. I had set my alarm for much earlier then that, but it never went off. It never went off because although I changed my alarm time, I didn't turn my alarm on! My higher power is pretty great, because I still woke up at 6:50. That is a very cool thing to me. I'm not typically a morning person. But the more healthy stuff I do for myself, the more I am a morning person. So, drank a glass of water, ate a tablespoon of almond butter, and drank about 1/2 cup of bolthouse green goodness juice, then I got dressed and walked over to the Natatorium. I did about 8 min. walking warm-up, stretch, then got on treadmill #1 for my 30 min. walk/run. I had to stop two times. Once, to go to the bathroom and then again to drink more water from fountain. Really, I am amazed by the sweating! I can't remember the last time I actually had sweat dripping from my face. Not counting the breaks, I did 2.1 miles. Monday, I did about 1.75 in my 30 min walk/run. I know it's not much of an increase, but it's something. And I will certainly take it. I did the same crunches routine that I did on Monday. I cut my cool-down walk to about 8 min. because I had to go to the bathroom again.
Today I realized two big things. One is that I really prefer music to Law and Order while running. I finally brought my iPod with me to the gym today. I don't have cable at my apartment, and I love Law and Order, so typically when walking it's great to be able to watch USA channel. But what a difference listening to music makes! P!nk, Journey, Sheryl Crow, it was the perfect line up. Plus, I don't think that crime shows actually improve or add anything to my life, let alone my exercising. The second thing that I learned today is that I think my body will be able to handle this. It's my mind that concerns me. It's scarey to say that about my body because I feel like I have beaten up my body so much. But my mind didn't want to keep going like it did on Monday. I was able to implement some of the positive sayings that Galloway suggests in his book. I think his book has at least 3 chapters alone on the mental aspects of the marathon. So, I may be re-reading those again. I could definitely use some positive brainwashing, as he calls it.
I also reminded myself today that I was only doing my run today. I kept re-directing my thinking from the half marathon to today. And for today, I have completed my training. I get a little stiff if I sit too long. But other than that, nothing in my body is on fire. Well, except for maybe my spirit. I haven't felt this alive and healthy for a while. I'm hoping to be able to do some stretching again before I go to bed to help with the soreness.
Stay tuned to see how my 4 miler goes on Friday.
and we run. . .
It has been QUITE some time since I've last posted. And now that I've started my training for my half-marathon at the Akron Roadrunner, I figured that I should keep track of this life changing experience. Well, at least I hope that it will be life changing. Even if it's not, it will be a major accomplishment. The big day will be on September 24, 2011 at 7:00 am!
As you can possibly guess, since my activity level on my blog went down so did my actual activity level! Earlier this year, I had set out to work on conditioning for my half, but never continued past February. I have still been doing some sporadic treadmill and walking, but I wouldn't say I was training. I've also been quite sporadic with my yoga practice in the last 6 months. Starting my training for the half, I am hoping to be able to practice more yoga. I think the stretching and asanas (poses) are quite complementary to running.
I know part of the battle has been to actually start training. So, what got my butt moving? Lots of things, but mainly that I had already registered for the event. And who wants to spend money on something they aren't going to do? Not me! This is something that I have wanted to do for a long time. And I would say that running a marathon is on my bucket list. I need to run a half-marathon before I run a full marathon! I want to be able to prove that I can push myself and complete it. Even more, I want to prove to myself that you don't have to have 19% body fat to be able to complete a half, and that I can do it without getting injured or further injuring my body!
September 24, 2011 at 7 am, you will be able to see me line up for the Roadrunner and then complete the half-marathon! As long as, I live through the training!
As you can possibly guess, since my activity level on my blog went down so did my actual activity level! Earlier this year, I had set out to work on conditioning for my half, but never continued past February. I have still been doing some sporadic treadmill and walking, but I wouldn't say I was training. I've also been quite sporadic with my yoga practice in the last 6 months. Starting my training for the half, I am hoping to be able to practice more yoga. I think the stretching and asanas (poses) are quite complementary to running.
I know part of the battle has been to actually start training. So, what got my butt moving? Lots of things, but mainly that I had already registered for the event. And who wants to spend money on something they aren't going to do? Not me! This is something that I have wanted to do for a long time. And I would say that running a marathon is on my bucket list. I need to run a half-marathon before I run a full marathon! I want to be able to prove that I can push myself and complete it. Even more, I want to prove to myself that you don't have to have 19% body fat to be able to complete a half, and that I can do it without getting injured or further injuring my body!
September 24, 2011 at 7 am, you will be able to see me line up for the Roadrunner and then complete the half-marathon! As long as, I live through the training!
Saturday, February 20, 2010
To those who may be trying yoga for the first time. . .
I have heard from so many people that the first time they practiced yoga - they did all the poses in the class and the next day they were in so much physical pain that they never wanted to try another yoga class. This is sooooo disheartening for me! I love and appreciate the benefits of yoga so much that when I hear "I'll never do that again!", I truly don't know how to respond.
So, I have done some thinking in regards to why this may be the case. First, one aspect is our ego. We think we have to do every pose just the way the instructor is demonstrating. And if we don't somehow others will think less of us, and/or we won't get the instructors approval. What I have learned is that it honestly doesn't matter what other yogis think of me and how I perform the postures. Particularly because they don't go home in my body and live with results of my enormous ego, I do!
And as for the instructor, if they are a well trained yogi, they know that some people have to modify poses. Some people have knee injuries, neck injuries, some people are larger and can't perform stretches the same as smaller people, etc. Your instructor will know that you receive the same benefits with modifications that the rest of class gets by the full expression of the pose.
Another issue that I think beginner yogis face is that they may not be in tuned to their bodies yet. I believe that is part of why I injured my neck in January. For myself, I have spent so much time trying to disconnect from my body and act like it wasn't there. Or act like it was a separate entity from myself. It was extremely hard when I first started to listening to my body. If I pay attention, if I choose to feel the pain when I go into a certain pose, I will lessen my chance of injury.
The next problem that I have noticed in myself is that I want to be as good as the yoga instructor the week that I start practicing. This happens in all areas of my life, not just yoga. When I am able to accept that this is something I need to learn, I am gentler on myself. I don't get upset that I can't stay in poses as long as everyone else. I don't get upset when I have to use modifications. I am able to be a student which enables me to also see my progress. It was wonderful when I realized that my joints didn't feel as weak and painful. It was a blessing when I realized that I could bend a little deeper than before. It was actually quite freeing to know that I didn't have to be as good as the instructor when I first started my practice.
Finally, communication with your instructor can be extremely intimidating when you begin your practice. I learned from my neck injury that is important to listen to your body and be able to relay that to your instructor. If you are told to try a new pose and you don't feel you are ready, let your instructor know. Again this is your body and you are the one going home with it. Arrive to your class early, so that you can settle in and adjust your energy to focus on your practice. Arriving early also gives you the chance to speak to your instructor. Let him or her know if you have any previous injuries or areas of concern, like your knees, or lower back. When you do this, it gives your instructor the opportunity to let you know how you can modify poses to fit your needs. Chances are there is someone else in your class that will benefit from these suggestions as well. Open communication with your instructor is very beneficial for you, as well as, your instructor.
If you have been disappointed by your initial yoga experience, please try again. I did. I am so grateful that I could. Namaste.
I have heard from so many people that the first time they practiced yoga - they did all the poses in the class and the next day they were in so much physical pain that they never wanted to try another yoga class. This is sooooo disheartening for me! I love and appreciate the benefits of yoga so much that when I hear "I'll never do that again!", I truly don't know how to respond.
So, I have done some thinking in regards to why this may be the case. First, one aspect is our ego. We think we have to do every pose just the way the instructor is demonstrating. And if we don't somehow others will think less of us, and/or we won't get the instructors approval. What I have learned is that it honestly doesn't matter what other yogis think of me and how I perform the postures. Particularly because they don't go home in my body and live with results of my enormous ego, I do!
And as for the instructor, if they are a well trained yogi, they know that some people have to modify poses. Some people have knee injuries, neck injuries, some people are larger and can't perform stretches the same as smaller people, etc. Your instructor will know that you receive the same benefits with modifications that the rest of class gets by the full expression of the pose.
Another issue that I think beginner yogis face is that they may not be in tuned to their bodies yet. I believe that is part of why I injured my neck in January. For myself, I have spent so much time trying to disconnect from my body and act like it wasn't there. Or act like it was a separate entity from myself. It was extremely hard when I first started to listening to my body. If I pay attention, if I choose to feel the pain when I go into a certain pose, I will lessen my chance of injury.
The next problem that I have noticed in myself is that I want to be as good as the yoga instructor the week that I start practicing. This happens in all areas of my life, not just yoga. When I am able to accept that this is something I need to learn, I am gentler on myself. I don't get upset that I can't stay in poses as long as everyone else. I don't get upset when I have to use modifications. I am able to be a student which enables me to also see my progress. It was wonderful when I realized that my joints didn't feel as weak and painful. It was a blessing when I realized that I could bend a little deeper than before. It was actually quite freeing to know that I didn't have to be as good as the instructor when I first started my practice.
Finally, communication with your instructor can be extremely intimidating when you begin your practice. I learned from my neck injury that is important to listen to your body and be able to relay that to your instructor. If you are told to try a new pose and you don't feel you are ready, let your instructor know. Again this is your body and you are the one going home with it. Arrive to your class early, so that you can settle in and adjust your energy to focus on your practice. Arriving early also gives you the chance to speak to your instructor. Let him or her know if you have any previous injuries or areas of concern, like your knees, or lower back. When you do this, it gives your instructor the opportunity to let you know how you can modify poses to fit your needs. Chances are there is someone else in your class that will benefit from these suggestions as well. Open communication with your instructor is very beneficial for you, as well as, your instructor.
If you have been disappointed by your initial yoga experience, please try again. I did. I am so grateful that I could. Namaste.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
The place where I have been practicing my yoga class is Free Akron Yoga. The link is below.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Free-Akron-Yoga/340604425643#!/pages/Free-Akron-Yoga/340604425643?v=wall
Free Yoga for the people! Every Tuesday 7-8:30 pm, at First Grace UCC Church, West Akron. Remove the obstacles!
This is in Akron, OH. It is a wonderful Community Yoga class that was started to join everyone, seriously the goal is all of Akron, in peace, compassion, and love. Check it out!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Free-Akron-Yoga/340604425643#!/pages/Free-Akron-Yoga/340604425643?v=wall
Free Yoga for the people! Every Tuesday 7-8:30 pm, at First Grace UCC Church, West Akron. Remove the obstacles!
This is in Akron, OH. It is a wonderful Community Yoga class that was started to join everyone, seriously the goal is all of Akron, in peace, compassion, and love. Check it out!
Boycotting all things healthy!
I knew it might be a few days til I could post. So I wrote on Monday, Feb 1st at home the following:
I don't think I ever got out of my negative thinking funk! I skipped yoga class on Tuesday because I was boycotting anything that resembled healthy. And yoga is in the very healthy category. So, no yoga for me!
Thankfully, I was able to ask my friends and mentors for help. I was able to be honest about my boycott. Most importantly I was willing to do things differently. Wednesday night I recommitted to taking care of myself. Thursday was a pretty easy day. I was just grateful to not be feeling so disgusted with myself.
Friday was tougher. Work was stressful. I was eating dinner later than normal, and on top of that my head kept telling me that food was going to fix how I felt. But I had already committed to meeting my friends for dinner. I was able to talk about my day, laugh and connect with people.
Saturday was a wonderful soul food day! A few weeks ago when I was really excited about yoga, I had asked a friend if she would be willing to photograph me doing yoga poses. She is Lynn Keller Photography located in Akron, OH. and she is an excellent photographer!
After my health/yoga boycott, I was slightly dreading the photo shoot. But I had committed, and so I went. I wasn't sure how it was going to go. I brought my yoga blocks, straps, mat and a couple of books with yoga poses for reference.
As Lynn and I were preparing for the photo shoot, a cute little VW bug pulled up to her house. Little did I know, Lynn had invited one of my yoga class instructors to the photo shoot. I immediately felt self-conscious and worried about not being good enough at yoga. I realized that I was comparing myself to Nancy who has been practicing yoga for about 30 years. So, I decided to be open to whatever this may bring.
Nancy and Lynn both are very open, warm and caring people. Not mention their twisted and quick sense of humor, so we laughed a lot! So this photo shoot turned into my very own private yoga session. It was absolutely amazing! Nancy did a warm up with me right in the studio. She helped me with correct alignment and explaining the benefits of each pose. And she showed me appropriate modifications when poses were painful.
The afternoon just gave me a renewed sense of yoga appreciation. It reminded me how rewarding and fulfilling practicing yoga is. I feel so empowered after doing my yoga practice. It feels great to be able to do something I never thought I could. It feels great to do poses that are challenging. It feels great when a pose that was difficult becomes slightly easier. It feels great to be able to stop and connect with the universe. It really does feel like I am nourishing my soul when I am practicing yoga!
Nancy asked me if I had a favorite pose. I'm not sure about a favorite, but I do know that I am still shocked every time I do Plank pose. I mean I can't do a push-up but I can do Cataranga-Plank pose. After thinking a second, I do have to say that I usually love corpse pose. Because it means that I can relax after a challenging class!
Ending the boycott. Namaste.
I don't think I ever got out of my negative thinking funk! I skipped yoga class on Tuesday because I was boycotting anything that resembled healthy. And yoga is in the very healthy category. So, no yoga for me!
Thankfully, I was able to ask my friends and mentors for help. I was able to be honest about my boycott. Most importantly I was willing to do things differently. Wednesday night I recommitted to taking care of myself. Thursday was a pretty easy day. I was just grateful to not be feeling so disgusted with myself.
Friday was tougher. Work was stressful. I was eating dinner later than normal, and on top of that my head kept telling me that food was going to fix how I felt. But I had already committed to meeting my friends for dinner. I was able to talk about my day, laugh and connect with people.
Saturday was a wonderful soul food day! A few weeks ago when I was really excited about yoga, I had asked a friend if she would be willing to photograph me doing yoga poses. She is Lynn Keller Photography located in Akron, OH. and she is an excellent photographer!
After my health/yoga boycott, I was slightly dreading the photo shoot. But I had committed, and so I went. I wasn't sure how it was going to go. I brought my yoga blocks, straps, mat and a couple of books with yoga poses for reference.
As Lynn and I were preparing for the photo shoot, a cute little VW bug pulled up to her house. Little did I know, Lynn had invited one of my yoga class instructors to the photo shoot. I immediately felt self-conscious and worried about not being good enough at yoga. I realized that I was comparing myself to Nancy who has been practicing yoga for about 30 years. So, I decided to be open to whatever this may bring.
Nancy and Lynn both are very open, warm and caring people. Not mention their twisted and quick sense of humor, so we laughed a lot! So this photo shoot turned into my very own private yoga session. It was absolutely amazing! Nancy did a warm up with me right in the studio. She helped me with correct alignment and explaining the benefits of each pose. And she showed me appropriate modifications when poses were painful.
The afternoon just gave me a renewed sense of yoga appreciation. It reminded me how rewarding and fulfilling practicing yoga is. I feel so empowered after doing my yoga practice. It feels great to be able to do something I never thought I could. It feels great to do poses that are challenging. It feels great when a pose that was difficult becomes slightly easier. It feels great to be able to stop and connect with the universe. It really does feel like I am nourishing my soul when I am practicing yoga!
Nancy asked me if I had a favorite pose. I'm not sure about a favorite, but I do know that I am still shocked every time I do Plank pose. I mean I can't do a push-up but I can do Cataranga-Plank pose. After thinking a second, I do have to say that I usually love corpse pose. Because it means that I can relax after a challenging class!
Ending the boycott. Namaste.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Learning to listen. . .
to my body! I think this is what I am going to have to improve on. I fell about an hour before my yoga class Tuesday. I seemed to be okay right after I fell and so I went as I planned.
As soon as I started my yoga practice, my knee hurt in the sitting pose. I already use a modification for my back, and I wasn't sure what to do about my knee. Then we did a short chant. Om, shanti, shanti, shanti, Om. . . It's wonderful. I never did the chanting for I started this class. There is something beautiful and profound about chanting these sanskrit words. Well, then we were on to downward dog and my right wrist was hurting more than I thought it was. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to put my weight on it or not. But it got easier and I decided to push through it.
My practice this night was much more difficult than the previous week. I was in a different spot than the week before. I had two friends there that hadn't come the week before. I was no longer on vacation. And I was pissed off about a situation at work. But I went in with the intention that I needed to trust that it would work itself out. I no longer was in control, so my action was to let go and trust higher power. I was glad to practice this while I had yoga, had I stayed home and been in my head it would've been much harder! It was also difficult to not worry about how my friends were doing in the class. At least when I went, I didn't expect things to be as they were the week before.
That night some practiced headstand pose, headstand strengthener and headstand modified. I think this is when I somehow strained my neck. I realized how weak my upper body is and how I need to work on strengthening it before I try this again! My wrist is still hurting today too. I think my ankle is healing. After some rest, arnica, stretching and ice, I do feel my body healing itself which I am extremely thankful!
So, I am learning that not only do I need to listen to my body outside of yoga, but also in yoga. I don't need to try and something just because I used to do be able to do it a year ago. I need to work with where I am at today, so that I can work back up to a higher fitness level.
I also am realizing how much I don't know about yoga. All the terms for the poses and different branches of yoga. This is something I would like to explore here on my blog. So for the next few days, I am going to continue to take it easy and hopefully be able to do class on Tuesday. Even if it is with some modifications. Listen and Trust. I think this is my new mantra. Namaste.
As soon as I started my yoga practice, my knee hurt in the sitting pose. I already use a modification for my back, and I wasn't sure what to do about my knee. Then we did a short chant. Om, shanti, shanti, shanti, Om. . . It's wonderful. I never did the chanting for I started this class. There is something beautiful and profound about chanting these sanskrit words. Well, then we were on to downward dog and my right wrist was hurting more than I thought it was. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to put my weight on it or not. But it got easier and I decided to push through it.
My practice this night was much more difficult than the previous week. I was in a different spot than the week before. I had two friends there that hadn't come the week before. I was no longer on vacation. And I was pissed off about a situation at work. But I went in with the intention that I needed to trust that it would work itself out. I no longer was in control, so my action was to let go and trust higher power. I was glad to practice this while I had yoga, had I stayed home and been in my head it would've been much harder! It was also difficult to not worry about how my friends were doing in the class. At least when I went, I didn't expect things to be as they were the week before.
That night some practiced headstand pose, headstand strengthener and headstand modified. I think this is when I somehow strained my neck. I realized how weak my upper body is and how I need to work on strengthening it before I try this again! My wrist is still hurting today too. I think my ankle is healing. After some rest, arnica, stretching and ice, I do feel my body healing itself which I am extremely thankful!
So, I am learning that not only do I need to listen to my body outside of yoga, but also in yoga. I don't need to try and something just because I used to do be able to do it a year ago. I need to work with where I am at today, so that I can work back up to a higher fitness level.
I also am realizing how much I don't know about yoga. All the terms for the poses and different branches of yoga. This is something I would like to explore here on my blog. So for the next few days, I am going to continue to take it easy and hopefully be able to do class on Tuesday. Even if it is with some modifications. Listen and Trust. I think this is my new mantra. Namaste.
So, I did end up practicing yoga on Sunday night. It was almost like I was on auto pilot. In the past I would make up a million excuses why I didn't want to. It was actually the first time I did yoga at my new apartment. My new living room is much smaller than my old living room and that was one of the previous reasons I used to not do yoga. Well, my mat and I both fit in the living room along with my christmas tree that is still up. It was nice to some slow, relaxing yoga right before I went to bed. It still amazes me how great I feel when I am done and how much I am actually able to do. Especially when I have my little Kazuki trying to do yoga with me! He is a 10 lb. maltese-poodle mix. I love when he does his little stretches after waking up! I don't know if I will ever do down dog as good as he does it, but at least I can try.
I love how when I practice honoring myself with my yoga practice that it spills over into other areas of my life. Somehow it's easier to make healthier food choices. Easier to not spend my money compulsively. Easier to take care of myself and say no to something and relax. Easier to listen to my inner voice. This is part of my intention as I am on this life journey. Namaste.
I love how when I practice honoring myself with my yoga practice that it spills over into other areas of my life. Somehow it's easier to make healthier food choices. Easier to not spend my money compulsively. Easier to take care of myself and say no to something and relax. Easier to listen to my inner voice. This is part of my intention as I am on this life journey. Namaste.
Friday, January 1, 2010
My first yoga class
I'm 27 and started practicing yoga at my apartment in early 2009. I chose to use a DVD that I bought from the store. I chose this route due to money constraints and how much fear I had to do yoga in front of others.
I've been overweight the majority of my life. Growing up fat, I learned that I should be ashamed of my body. I tried to be invisible the best that I could so that people wouldn't notice me. It was easy to do because most people ignored me anyways when they passed me on the street, in a store, etc. I learned that fat equaled ugly and that I shouldn't be sexual at all. Over the last four years, I have lost about 105 lbs. and been able to keep off 80 lbs. of that weight loss. I went from a size 28 to a size 16, and I stay at size 18 these days.
Now I realize that I'm not as big as I used to be, but in our society today being a size 18 still tends to be get put in the overweight/obese category. And while I do not loathe my body like I used to, I was still pretty uncomfortable practicing yoga in front of others. I mean from my limited knowledge of yoga, I thought I wouldn't be able to do it. Because I only saw thin, skinny, fit people doing yoga.
I do not fit in this category. Seriously what are people going to think of ME doing yoga. You have to twist, bend, and do these poses that can seem a little suggestive at times!
Well, this past tuesday, I had the opportunity to take part in a free yoga class. It was an hour and a half. I hadn't done yoga in months. I had only done 30-40 minutes at a time before this night. But I'm on vacation and I was completely committed to having a refreshing vacation. Yoga fit the bill.
So the following is the post from my facebook status when I came back from yoga class that night.
In a world where diets, eating disorders, and health complications due to these disorders run rampant, my goal is to commit myself to my yoga practice. For my health and my spirit. Why should I continue to deny myself of something that is so invigorating, rejuvenating, and challenging? It is time. Time to live fully and that for me includes practicing yoga.
Join me on my journey. Namaste.
I've been overweight the majority of my life. Growing up fat, I learned that I should be ashamed of my body. I tried to be invisible the best that I could so that people wouldn't notice me. It was easy to do because most people ignored me anyways when they passed me on the street, in a store, etc. I learned that fat equaled ugly and that I shouldn't be sexual at all. Over the last four years, I have lost about 105 lbs. and been able to keep off 80 lbs. of that weight loss. I went from a size 28 to a size 16, and I stay at size 18 these days.
Now I realize that I'm not as big as I used to be, but in our society today being a size 18 still tends to be get put in the overweight/obese category. And while I do not loathe my body like I used to, I was still pretty uncomfortable practicing yoga in front of others. I mean from my limited knowledge of yoga, I thought I wouldn't be able to do it. Because I only saw thin, skinny, fit people doing yoga.
I do not fit in this category. Seriously what are people going to think of ME doing yoga. You have to twist, bend, and do these poses that can seem a little suggestive at times!
Well, this past tuesday, I had the opportunity to take part in a free yoga class. It was an hour and a half. I hadn't done yoga in months. I had only done 30-40 minutes at a time before this night. But I'm on vacation and I was completely committed to having a refreshing vacation. Yoga fit the bill.
So the following is the post from my facebook status when I came back from yoga class that night.
um, so. . .yoga. it was. i need more practice. and at least i'm still pretty flexible for a big girl, right?! lol. at the end i had this moment. i knew i was doing something healing and enriching for myself then my body was just like-we miss this, we should do this more-and i felt like crying. and i'm ok with this.
This post and other inspiring circumstances have led me to creating this blog. I believe yoga can be for everyone. My first yoga class showed me that I don't need to be ashamed of my body. I can do downward dog with everyone else. I don't need to compare myself with everyone else. I don't have to be the best. It is enough to be me and practice yoga the best that I can.In a world where diets, eating disorders, and health complications due to these disorders run rampant, my goal is to commit myself to my yoga practice. For my health and my spirit. Why should I continue to deny myself of something that is so invigorating, rejuvenating, and challenging? It is time. Time to live fully and that for me includes practicing yoga.
Join me on my journey. Namaste.
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