March 15, 2020
Although I consider myself to be somewhat of an introvert, I shudder to think of how social distancing is a buzzword and no contact delivery options is the norm. And it’s downright scary how quickly this all escalated.
As we start to settle into what is going to be the new normal the question arise for how long until a sense of normalcy returns? I think that is where fear lives…the fear of the unknown. But fear of the unknown causes us to spend an enormous amount of time worrying…worrying about what might happen. So instead of worrying about what I can’t control, I am going to do what I can during this time of “social distancing”. Here is my list to get you to start thinking of what you can do.
1. WALK EVERY DAY. Yes. A minimum of 30 minutes. Outside. This is how I am going to start my day. Fresh air has a ton of health benefits and along with making you feel better emotionally. And if I can get my husband to join me…bonus!
2. GET ON MY MAT EVERY DAY. I got a reminder the other day that 5 years ago this weekend I was starting my yoga teacher training. Since starting that journey, I can honestly say I practice yoga every day. But I am speaking to a yoga lifestyle and living the principles and lessons I have learned off the mat. Actually getting on my mat for a physical practice of the asanas only happens a couple of times a week. My home studio, as many fitness facilitys, is temporarily closed. Knowing how important continuing our practice is, The Yoga Shop is downloading a new class every day to their website, that will be linked to a playlist on Spotify, so you can practice at home. Thank you Yoga Shop!
3. BE NICE TO MY HUSBAND. Let’s be honest…this is a stressful time and in times of distress, we tend to take it out on those we love the most because we are comfortable in letting them see our true selves. While I coach virtually and can continue to work, my classes are cancelled. He is a teacher and is home for an indefinite period of time. While his parents live nearby, he can’t spend time with them to help keep them healthy. This is a huge disruption to both of our lives and we need to be patient with each other. We seldom get to spend quality time together and this time is a gift.
4. EAT HEALTHY AND DRINK A TON OF WATER. I did stock up on some essentials (without going overboard….that just isn’t my way). But I purposely did not buy a bunch of junk food for the house. We all get away for good habits and this is a good time to reinforce it while keeping it simple. There won’t be much (if any) grocery shopping for a couple of weeks. We have plenty of food. Nothing fancy required.
5. READ EVERY DAY. You know all those books that are taking up space on shelves? I can’t be the only one that does it….gets a great book, reads 20 pages…and that’s it. Time to get to it.
6. CATCH UP ON PODCASTS. So many options here! My favorite triathlon podcast is CRUSHING IRON. This is not a quick and easy way to be a better triathlete. They focus on giving the right effort to your training while staying focused and having faith in the process. It is the perfect blend of training and mindfulness for the yogi-triathlete. Give them a listen.
7. STAY ON TOP OF MY TRAINING. Yes, like you, I have had races cancelled. I can’t get to the pool or gym. So I will focus on what I CAN do. My bike and run workouts will be on point, and I will focus on getting stronger. Yoga and resistance band workouts at home. It doesn’t need to be complicated to be effective. I am going to train for the next race…whatever that next race may be.
Say strong, stay healthy, and keep working toward being your best self!
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