There’s always the aftermath of what? Usually it’s a race. This time is wasn’t a race, it was just a run, an ordinary run to the highest peak in our mountains. Well, not quite ordinary (see last post). I got a cramp that lasted THREE DAYS.
Though I rested Monday, I did go on a hike with my oldest son. Planned to visit the gym. Didn’t.
Tuesday, I left my house later than planned, arriving on the trails after 7AM. I decided to run my normal loop in Aliso/Wood Canyons counter-clockwise instead of clockwise. Running up Meadows this morning didn’t seem like the best idea with the cramp, so I decided to run my loop counter-clockwise, which makes for a longer, yet gradual climb.
The weather was cool and cloudy. Relief.
Someone turned on the air conditioner!!
I met running friend on West Ridge and we chatted a bit. I felt fine, not too quick, but my mood was pretty neutral. Then sometime into this run, a dark cloud of gloom appeared above my head. Depressed, I began the terrible self-talk, things like, “I pretty much SUCK at everything I do. EVERYTHING.” This sort of thing happens to me more than I wish. And it usually happens after a big run, usually a marathon.
Such thoughts are not good for running. They were painful, so once I could no longer stand the wallowing, I forced those thoughts out of my mind. The only way that I could keep them gone was to run with a completely blank mind. Which I did.
Top of the World
Leaving Meadows Trail
Running through Wood Canyon, the sun now shining, I’ve got plenty of Sycamore shade
Miles run on Tuesday: 9.63
Wow it is tough when the body takes longer to heal than normal. Its really good you were able to stop those negative thoughts. I sometimes do that when I am being active and it makes the experience so lame. I am always super impressed by how strong and in shape you are!! I find your blog to be SO inspiring!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Kate, you are very sweet. Runs like Sunday's don't make me feel l'm in very good shape. I'm very glad this blog is inspiring. That makes me very happy. Thanks for reading.
ReplyDeleteThe fact that you can get those thoughts out of your head shows you are in great shape. Awesome and your mental strength is much better than you realize as well. Keep it going Lauren!
ReplyDeleteI appreciate the compliment Johann. I've been working hard on the mental lately. It goes hand-in-hand with the physical. At least for me.
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