So the clouds have finally parted and I am feeling very much myself again (better than that actually!) What I have learned over this past, very dark, 9mos is to keep on going, praying and working as best I can because even when I think nothing is happening and things are getting worse...it turns out they are not and I am eventually lead to where I need to go to get the answers I need.
That said, I want to share what is happening NOW :)
I have set some new fitness goals for the next year which include PF Changs 1/2 marathon in January, hiking the Grand Canyon rim to rim to rim in May, and then a full marathon next September! I am very excited.
I have run a 1/2 marathon before but this time I am doing my training in a completely different way. I got a VO2 test to determine where my heart rate should be when I run, how much oxygen I am taking in, and to see whether I burn fat & carbs while I workout or just carbs....
It was so helpful to have this information. This is going to help me create a really strong aerobic base, increase my endurance level and eventually my speed. But there is one catch...at first I have to go SUUUUPER slow. Now if you know me, you know that I am an all out kind of person. I go as fast as I can, for as long as I can.
So far, I am noticing how I am now able to enjoy each moment as it passes and be fully present while I am running. For the first time, I can see why people say they love to run. And I believe them when they say it relaxes them and gives them time to listen and talk to God. With the way I have trained in the past there was no time for any of that...it was iPod in my ear, breathing as hard as I could...looking for the finish line.
This was not only true for running, with me it was everything. I went hiking yesterday and it was amazing to me how much more I enjoyed myself being able to go at a slower pace. And I already LOVE to hike and thought I was getting a charge out of it.
Now, I will say I have had a few frustrating moments. It's challenging for me to be patient and disciplined enough to go slow. I'm keeping the faith though. And trying to remember that building this foundation will eventually lead me to the goals I want to achieve for my health, and keep me doing it for the rest of my life.
I will let you know how its going!
