Finding Time and Leaving Space

"My feeling is that any day I am too busy to run, I am too busy."- John Bryant

It's fascinating how quickly life whirls us around. Some days I find myself cramming in yoga sessions in my living room and runs around my area, when all that I need is the time to fully enjoy the practice. One morning a year ago, in between a set of 800 repeats, my training partner gently reminded me that life is a marathon, and not a sprint. How easy it is to forget this great life lesson during those times it is needed the most!

Early morning Sunday run!

This past week I accomplished all my personal goals: continued my no-bread March (each month in 2014, I can giving up something that is not good in excess), ran my miles and completed speed workouts, practiced yoga and spent some extra time my my fiance and puppy. 

Home-made healthy treats for Jackpot!

Click here for the recipe I found on Pintrest!

That said, I was still so anxious for everything else. As I prepare for the yoga class I teach, I hope to bring this idea of slowing down into a theme. My classes are normally fast-paced and for those who enjoy cardio workouts (Power Yoga/Vinyasa oriented). The line, "When it's all said and done, you can walk instead of run" from Lady Antebellum is important to consider when we examine our own lives and maybe need to just go slowly and let life take its course. Sometimes its at those moments of rest that we find our true value and creative energy that powers up our day to do all the great things we do!

Building Speed

    This year, I have been focusing on building speed- not going out too fast. During February, I committed to several long runs outside, but spent a lot of time on the treadmill. I even had to do a 5-miler on it one time. Not fun!
    February speed workouts consisted of 1 minute at 30 seconds slower than race pace, 1 minute at race pace, and 1 minute at 45 seconds faster than race pace. Intervals are more enjoyable on the treadmill than just drumming along. I also began incorporating hills once a week. 
   March has been difficult finding time to run with coaching track, tutoring, and my actual teaching profession which I love. Last night, I did a practice run of a local 5k I am running on Saturday...at 8:15 at night! That's where these workouts come in handy, as well as a goods night rest and getting up early to accomplish all the great adventures the day holds. 
   I'm also finding more enjoyment running with others or without an ipod. This goes in phases and I am truly embracing this one.

Here's a great picture of a friendly and spirited race: