Kicking Myself

I got new "kicks"! Get it? Kicking myself? Groan. Long story short, I have some minimalist trail runners that I love wearing..they are light and I feel quick in them. But I convinced myself they were making a knee problem worse. The more likely truth is that I have been rather complacent about some physical therapy exercises I was given back in November to combat my knee problem...patellofemoral syndrome, a vague but promising diagnosis. But a diagnosis doesn't fix it, especially when you don't follow instructions. For that, I really am kicking myself.

Long, long ago, when I was a consistent runner (which I'm aiming to be again...I think), I preferred trail runners because they were a little more rugged and seemed to protect me from rolling my ankle so often. I picked up these Montrail FluidFlex II because they were on sale, cool looking, and had good reviews. I thought they'd solve all my problems and my months of not doing the proper knee work would be irrelevant. So, of course, on my first time out with these, I did a major ankle roll while trying to fight through the worst, sharp knee pain. It wasn't an EPIC fail, but it was disappointing and frustrating. Problems decidedly not solved, with no one to blame but myself. So, it's ice packs, stretches, and strengthening for me...EVERY NIGHT. I think I'll reward myself with a run next week. In the meantime, walking, hiking, and biking, stiff ankle and achey knee be damned.

Anything you're kicking yourself for this week?

On NOT going on an adventure...

Little one taking a little break on Angel Island/Photo Credit: Scott Mansfield

I think that adventure is the right choice 98% of the time. Even small adventures like a walk in the rain win out over (some) responsibilities or laziness. Adventure refreshes the soul and makes you feel like you can tackle the rest of life.

Sometimes your guts cry out to stay home and you have to have a chat with yourself about the benefits of going out. You KNOW the adventure will be fun and good for you, you just have to get out of bed or away from the computer. But sometimes you DO have to listen to your guts. Sometimes your guts know that you are avoiding hard tasks. Sometimes your guts know you are fragile.

I've been dealing with some anxiety issues lately. I won't bore you with details...I just have some work+healing to do. But my brain+body issues mean that I'm hovering closer to my limits and do need to pay attention when my gut says "don't go!" If I push past my mental and physical limits I get cranky and tired and withdrawn...in other words, no fun to be around. Staying home and staying quiet can really help bring me back to a little closer to normal. Sure, I might miss out on a special moment, but I know I'll hear stories about it and see pictures, and I know I'll be ready for the next adventure.

Yoga Studio

I'm still trying to find my way back into an athletic routine after having a baby and being a new parent, plus dealing with some mild injuries. An app I love right now is the Yoga Studio app by Modern Lotus. It's easy to use, it's pretty, and I've already learned new, useful poses...especially some hip opening ones. It's got a great pose library for reference and classes with different ability levels and styles. You can build your own class or use pre-made routines, which come in as little as 15 minute chunks...perfect for balancing yoga with a busy toddler. It's also a great app for folks who have gone to some yoga classes, but struggle with doing it on their own at home... and the Yoga Studio can go anywhere with you...because you know you take your iPhone everywhere. I think it could get your blood moving on a chilly morning while camping. FYI, the makers of this app have no idea who I am....I just though you should know about it.  What are your favorite health and fitness apps? 

runner

HUGE congrats to my mama for completing her first half-marathon today! I went for a 20 minute jog yesterday and barely made it...I'm so proud of her!

Mama, is a full marathon next?

notes to self

1. You like running in the rain...stop using it as an excuse.

    Addendum to item 1: In the event of no rain, remember that you do really like running in general.  Getting out of the house is the hardest part.

2. Muscle weighs more than fat.  Stop freaking out at what the scale says, especially since your pants still [mostly] fit

3. You can do more than you think you can...stop being afraid.

     Addendum to item 3: No one is going to hand you anything...figure out what you want and go for it...again, stop being afraid.

4. The pollen forecast this week is crazy...Claritin and the air filter are your best friends again.

5. You've decided you don't mind peas. You will never like bell peppers.