Monday, January 26, 2009

Winter Wonder Yin

I just found this article called "Winter Wonder Yin" on Yoga Journal.com. While it may be slightly more appropriate for December, it explains a lot of why I've been feeling less energetic lately and much more introspective and quiet. I think most of us would agree it makes some sense.

Also, the part at the end about avoiding Yin foods like raw veggies and cold drinks and salads was something I really liked. Interestingly enough, the other day I was thinking "gee...I haven't been craving my salads like I usually do...what's up with that?" Clearly, nature has it all under control.

Running has been nil over the past two weeks. That may change this week: what with a road trip to LA and all, I may be forced to log some miles on the Asics. I'm fine with that, just need to remember to start back slow and easy and not go all out.

However, spinning and cycling has been incredible, and I've been managing some swim time in also. Yoga is awesome and is kicking my ass. I LOVE it. I love how, when I was doing it 2 days/week I wouldn't really get sore because I was doing it JUST enough. But now that I'm doing it 4 days/week, I'm getting SORE because of all the improvements I'm making and additional ways I'm pushing my body. I finally, FINALLY got Astavakrasana (see photo).
It's the little things...

...Like massage! I got a massage yesterday and I think she really helped to work out this scar tissue I've built up in my right quad. Essentially it starts to lock up (not cramp...but just tighten and cause much pain) when I run any sort of hills with intensity. Case in point: my last XC race was an epic fail because I was in so much pain by the end I had tears in my eyes and it was all I could do just to keep running, let alone run FAST. I can feel it somewhat in the pool and on the bike, but it's not nearly so severe. Yet another reason I've disliked running. BUT this woman is AMAZING and not only did she seem to work some of it out, but it was nearly pain-free as she did it!

On the topic of actually having a 'season': I've finally committed to one thing so far: The Solvang Century with Carmen on March 14.

BUT, BUT BUT...my GOALS this week are as follows:
  • Get spin classes for the rest of the week written/playlists made
  • Find a class to take to get certified to teach mat exercises (read: abs; we do this after spin at the Airport Club and I suck at teaching ab exercises)
  • Get bike races lined up (or at least a few over the next 2 months)
  • Decide on triathlons for the year
  • Find spin continuing ed classes to take

That's a lot...esp given my semi-short week. But I usually do better when I set a lot out for myself because it means I have to be more productive with my time. SO that's my Monday post! Wishing everybody a happy and productive week in whatever way that may be.

I'll end this post with a couple photos from the "Ride the Route" on January 17...



Carmen and Kelly chilling...


The group in Calistoga getting ready to head back over the mountain

9 comments:

Kelly said...

you can do that pose? im impressed!

Kelly said...

oh i also meant to say....do snelling road race! im going to with one of the girls from my team and its going to be fun :)

Kathleen @ ForgingAhead said...

Seriously, I'm with Kelly. You can do THAT pose? Really? Wow.

The Solvang Century sounds like a beautiful (and hilly) ride - fun!

So are you going LA for fun? Details!

Cristi said...

Sarah, You are an amazing, reflective, goal-oriented woman! If you don't mind, I'd love to see some of your spin profiles. I'll need inspiration when I go back to teaching in March.

Rainmaker said...

Wait a sec - you voluntarily put yourself in a position similiar to the one pictured? You mean it wasn't part of flying off a bike unexpectedly?

Cause if so...that just seems intrigingly wrong.

D said...

You updated your blog. TRAITOR!

Marit C-L said...

Holy cow - that pose is intense! Good luck with the running, I am very familiar with that pain. Self massage helps a little, but I'm a wimp when it comes to getting out all the knots. Good luck with the '09 schedule!

Shan said...

Congrats on conquering Astavakrasana! That one can be tricky - especially when your shoulders are sweaty!! hehe

Oh the knots of the quad - OUCH! Glad to hear the masseuse successfully go them out!

Have a great week!

triguyjt said...

that pose is amazing.....

enjoy gettingout on the roads too