This was my first week fully adjusting to my running restriction. I worked out 4 times. Monday, I had a personal training session focused on resistance, followed by 20 minutes on the elliptical machine. The elliptical has never been a favorite. However, it’s an approved alternative, so I am going to maximize it. On Wednesday, I walked 3 miles while other group members ran. What a treat to have my BGR! sister Carie stay with me the entire time! (No pressure, though, I promise!) I had another PT session on Friday. Then, this morning, I did a spinning class for the first time in a long time. Good stuff!
What became clear to me this week was the need to focus on all the good things about this journey. I already knew that I wanted to guard against becoming preoccupied with comparing my present capacities to what I could do 12 to 18 months ago, but the dangers of comparison felt more intense when I was told not to run. As Carie shared in a comment last week, it is really easy to focus on what you can’t do and thereby lose motivation. I am not immune to that struggle.
And when that struggle emerges, it’s important to remember that some things are not negative unless we insist upon a negative spin. For example, my running restriction does not have to be seen as a lack. However, it will most certainly create negative energy if I view it that way. The energy we create with our approach to various situations is powerful. Indeed, I’m noticing that when I focus on gratitude for what I already have and what I can already do, I create better energy around not only my physical activities but also around my writing.
Like anything worth doing consistently, this is sometimes easier said than done. But we have the power to make our words into actions. Let’s keep doing this!
What I have always loved about our BGR! meet-ups is we leave no woman behind. Like you always say “What matters most is that we’re moving. Who cares how fast or slow?” Now, make no mistake, that 4 or so miles we power-walked was no joke! I’m pretty sure we were going about a 4.5 mph pace which helped to keep us warm while the temp was in the 20s. It was a great fat burning work out and I felt great afterwards. I had a few workouts last week that I had a difficult time getting through, but I really made an effort to be kind to myself and give myself credit for doing the best I can at this stage of my journey.
I enjoy coming to this blog each week and at times when I need some motivation or a kind reminder of healthy habits. Although I know my journey is my own, I also know that I am not alone.
What a gift!!! Thank you.