January 2021 - What's on the agenda😃
We officially made it, safe and in good health to 2021. Let's not take that for granted as recently a number of people that I personally know have been affected by Covid 19 ending up in hospital. I continue to pray for a speedy recovery for them and anyone else affected. Who would have thought that this pandemic would still be affecting our lives and the economy still. Stay safe and look after those around you.
Since my last update, I have been taking time out, taking a step back and just enjoying the moment. Happy for the restful break over the Christmas period. For now I am just focusing on realising everything will be ok, just one day and one step at a time.
During lockdown 1.0, I was still able to go full steam ahead with work and running with the opportunity for many virtual challenges and still having the privilege to run with a few people back then.
Fast forward to October when I had my 1st major running injury. I call it major, because it actually put a stop to my running unlike the little or not so niggles us runners get but still manage to run with the hope a few days rest will help us recuperate. Other runners knows strains, sprains, and stress fractures don’t just affect your body. They also mess with your mind. Yes I cried, why me, I'll never be able to run again (that fear still lingers at the back of my mind), I'm going to lose fitness, I'm going to gain weight and the rest.
What I have since done is learn to respond with active steps that have been helping my physical recovery and mental recovery. Many people have said to me that working on your mental game when you’re injured may allow me to come back a better and more well-rounded athlete. AMEN to that.
I believe in self-talk. Self-talk can be both negative and positive. It can be encouraging, and it can be distressing. Much of your self-talk depends on your personality. My personality has always been, what's the worst that can happen. Just go for it. I say this to myself and people around me. As Richard Branson said, 'If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it , say yes – then learn how to do it later!'
And actually been injured has allowed me to slow down and actually enjoy what I am doing more, rather than just doing it and moving on. I still have goals but I am learning to enjoy the journey not just the end result.
My Run Grateful journey has taught me to find gratitude in the smallest things and feeling thankful everyday. Just begin by simply taking notice and appreciating the simple things. If this pandemic has taught me anything, its to remain optimistic and open your eyes to life.
This month Run Grateful have their Run Grateful relay from January 8th to 10th. Run a mile and pass the baton to 3 friends 😉👊
*Picture from Run Grateful instagram
So January 1st, I joined the many other REDers out there taking part in RED January. If you are also taking part whether you are running, cycling, swimming, home workout or walking, like me, remember you are not alone. There is a great community of REDers out there and you can join the Facebook group and share your journey.
January 3rd, I had the pleasure of being on the panel for Love Trails Festival Project 2021. This was a half day virtual festival designed to give you the tools to make 2021 your best year yet. Whilst raising funds for runcrews doing important work for mental health @bemore.you and @runtalkrun. Thanks to @shahussain and @theolj for the invite.
As I write this, its 9th January and I will be going out shortly. I have walked 32km in 9 days which includes joining Jasmine Cole Fit bootcamp class today and should really slow down! The plan is to walk January out to continue to build the strength in my foot following my physio's advice. To build my running base again, I have already downloaded the couch to 5k app and will start with that at the end of the month. I am actually really excited to start. I have never used the app before but I have read great things about it.
The One You Couch to 5K app guides people through a 9 week programme by encouraging them to run three times a week. This helps people to increase the distance they run little by little so that by the time they arrive at week 9 they are encouraged to run for half an hour, which is approximately 5k. *Taken from app
For the rest of January, the plan is to:
- Complete RED January
- Do strength training
- Start Couch to 5k at the end of the month
- Stay safe 🙏🏿
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