Well I made it to the gym last night and did about 50 minutes of cardio on the elliptical machine. I just didn't feel like running...I was kind of sore and felt like doing something that was a bit gentler on my body. I also love the elliptical cause I can read a magazine and the time goes by so fast!
Afterwards, I went up to the stretching/abs room for a bit and began to stretch out like I normally do. And it felt amazing! Like I really, really needed that...So I decided to give my entire body a good and thorough slow stretch.
Usually, I'm in a hurry. If I run in the morning, I'm in a hurry to get back and get ready for work and if I run at night, I'm hurrying to get my workout in before the gym closes. And I never go directly after work due to traffic, an extremely crowded gym and because I'm always starving and ready for dinner. So most of the time, I run and then do a little mandatory, quick stretch on the big leg muscles.
But last night I wasn't in a rush and so I just closed my eyes and while taking deep breaths, made sure that I focused on every part of my body. I felt like a new woman. Before my wedding, I was taking Pilate's regularly and had the chance to fully stretch like this, but it's been about 7 months since I've been to class. I need to get back into the Pilate's routine!
Not only did my body feel refreshed, but my mind felt clear and peaceful...free of the holiday and work stress. I've said many times before that running is vital to my physical and emotional well-being and now I realize that a good cool down is too.
I also noticed that I felt much smoother and lighter this morning on my run. I love when something so easy reaps so many great benefits!
Alright, I know that this is an extremely cheesy post, but I'm serious...it felt that good! Try it for yourself! I think you'll be hooked!
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2 comments:
Uggh. I hate stretching.
This past week at work was really slow, so I would try to take 2-3 five minute breaks throughout the day and spend that time stretching. I figure if other people get smoke breaks, stretching breaks should be alright, too.
I used to take pilates classes but it didn't really pan out, because every time I rolled like a ball, I was afriad I'd fart like a dude.
Oh well.
And yes, it's 12South in Nashville. Represent!
Or something.
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