When I signed up for the half marathon training I wasn’t sure what to expect other than consistent cardio excercise twice a week. The following are some of the lovely treats I’ve experienced during the training.
- Nature early in the morning. We mostly walk on the levy and so we’re amongst the trees, shrubs and plants.
- The BIRDS! Who knew seeing yellow-billed magpies would be so exciting? I think this all stems from my learning about these birds on our last class field trip to the Yolo Basin Wetlands. (In case you don’t live in the Central Valley in California, I’ve posted a picture below.)
- The ease in conversation amongst strangers. Most folks signed up to walk with their friends. Me and a couple other women went solo and have found each other to be great company.
- Saying walk out five miles and turn around sounds so much easier than walk 10 miles. I love the semantic game of the turn around and its ability to ease my mind.
- I’ve been pleasantly surprized at my body’s recuperation. I’m really tired at the end of a long walk, but after a good home practice I feel fine. Even days later my body feels way better than I thought it would.
- I’m really happy with my choice to walk, rather than push myself to run. Thirteen miles really is a long way, so however you get there is a big accomplishment.
- Genuine hunger after training. It feels good to be thinking about how to fuel my body in training.
I’ve been struck by how much this training is a form of yoga for me. I’m paying attention to my surroundings, listening to subtle clues from my body, and not pushing myself beyond what I need at any given moment.
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Today’s yoga brought to you by the home practice! I’m teaching tonight, so I have to prep myself.
Today’s music is Gone by Dwight Yoakam.
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Don’t forget FREE Fridays at 4:30 with the new It’s All Yoga teachers (21st and X in Sacramento) – you’ve got to sign up online www.itsallyoga.com.
I’m teaching 3/5/10 – so mark your calendar.
For the month of February, I’m teaching a Level 1/2 on Mondays at 5:45. Come join me.
TONIGHT is the last class in this series!
Teacher Goes Back to School 
Love it Tams. This sounds wonderful. So great for you to be doing something so good for yourself, and finding all the extra love there.
xo,
E
@erin – it is strangely wonderful. i think the no expectations really helps. and all those magpies are pretty amazing.
That is awesome, Tami! I can’t wait until I can walk outside … hopefully we’ll get a big melt this week:) In the meantime, need more namaste!
@hollee – i can’t imagine living in snow at all and yours sounds particularly daunting. i hope you get some relieft soon! in the meantime, namaste =)