Yoga teachers always say to tune into your body at the beginning of class. It will let you where you are.
True. Sometimes I am strong, ready to try any arm balance, even if I smash my nose onto the floor and want to cry. Other days I am stiff, and can barely raise my body off the floor for a backbend. Sometimes I feel invincible. Grateful. Wow!
But this is even MORE true for running. My daily (or semi-daily) run is the ultimate check-in. If I drank the night before, My God that run is a slog. If I rested, I feel light and happy on my feet. If I feel blue, it will take two miles to get me out of my funk. If I didn't eat enough I will run out of gas part way through.
If I eat fruits and vegetables and greens and nuts, I really do feel better.
Running so much has also shown me that my blueness often starts with my body, not my head. Interesting...
Of course I know that food and sleep affect physical performance. But to tune in daily and see what that really means in an endeavor that I cannot coast through is astounding. It all matters. It all matters more than I want to believe. It matters sooooo much. If it matters that much I am a fool for not paying attention. Even when I am not running.
Don't you think?
I need to pay attention.
My body is trying so hard for this endeavor. I need to respect it and help it out. No more martinis the night before a long run.
October 23
9 years ago
