I am not a yogi, nor do I practice yoga. Well maybe once a year at most, just to test it out, but absolutely no committment or no plan!
Yet I am very interested in it. I love talking to people who practice to hear about their experiences, especially understanding what they get out of it. I also enjoy reading about it. Various kinds of books, ones with the traditions and history explained or ones where the corporate executive becomes enlightened and leaves her million dollar job behind to set up a yoga school to spread the word and enlighten others.
Behind yoga there is a steep history and it is very rich. The learnings seem so simple yet somehow incredibly hard.
Its all about breathing and being kind to the body.
It seems to be about understanding your limits and respecting them.
It seems to encourage strength building in the mind and the body. At the same time. Harmoniously.
One excerpt of the book that particulary resonated as I was reading it last night, was about learning or more precisely how to learn.
This is how it read:
How to be a beginner:
1. Try not to assume. Unpack your expectations. Some days are better than others. Be content with your practice that day.
2. Focus on the important things: your breath, your attitude, and how you feel.
3. Be greateful there are still some things you are not good at. Hurray for learning!
4. Be comfortable with what you don't know, because there is a lot more of it.
These 4 tips were all associated with yoga, yet they clearly apply to all aspects of life.
I have printed these out and put them on my desk where I can see them. I woudl like to remind myself of these principles. I know I am not very kind with myself. I can be very unforgiving of myself when I am not meeting my expectations or standards. If something does not go to plan, I can be very harsh and being greatful in these incidences, seems a long way off.
I also believe I should know everything about what I do, but here it reminds me to be comfortable with not knowing and even more so, accept that there is a ton more I dont know and that is a good thing.
So a long way to go for me?
What about you?
Does this resonate in any way?
Do you see the application to yoga and to life?
Do tell...........
Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
School sports day
Do you remember the days of school sports days? Love them or hate them?
I don't think I liked them much. Sack race, egg and spoon race, slow bicycle race, relay, sprint etc.
There was a whole day of races and waiting and at the end of the day there was awards for the best and the fastest. I also remember getting a triangle carton of orange juice with a straw -anyone else have that memory?
I do recall the excitment all the kids in theschool entered into. There was always a buzz and an air of craziness in the run up to the annual school sports day. It was a big event.
It was a day to celebrate the strongest and the best sportsmen and possible the sportswomen, although I do only remember that the guys won the trophies!
However today it seems that sports days are very different.
My kids had theirs last week. There were games and races that were not at all individual based but rather team based. In fact it went further than that, the set up of the teams was not done traditionally, it was a mix up of different ages and classes. Each pupil was in a new group of friends.
The games were also different, there was a combination of skills built into the activities, it was no longer based on what I recalled which were speed and agility, but these exercises were based on other skills. For example the kids were asked to blow sticks though tubes with the aim of hitting a target, then they had to do some running and balancing and then they had to strike a gong in a certain way to gain points for their team. So it was possible for anyone to win, not just the kid who is the athelete.
I have to say I liked this approach.
There was still recognition to the best and quickest teams, but everyone had equal chances.
Times have changed our practices and our schools have evolved. Inclusion matters, as does recognizing many strengths.
Does this make the kids less competitive?
I don't think so?
Does this make the day less fun?
I don't think so?
Does this shift make the world a better place?
I think quite possibly.
Thoughts anyone?
I don't think I liked them much. Sack race, egg and spoon race, slow bicycle race, relay, sprint etc.
There was a whole day of races and waiting and at the end of the day there was awards for the best and the fastest. I also remember getting a triangle carton of orange juice with a straw -anyone else have that memory?
I do recall the excitment all the kids in theschool entered into. There was always a buzz and an air of craziness in the run up to the annual school sports day. It was a big event.
It was a day to celebrate the strongest and the best sportsmen and possible the sportswomen, although I do only remember that the guys won the trophies!
However today it seems that sports days are very different.
My kids had theirs last week. There were games and races that were not at all individual based but rather team based. In fact it went further than that, the set up of the teams was not done traditionally, it was a mix up of different ages and classes. Each pupil was in a new group of friends.
The games were also different, there was a combination of skills built into the activities, it was no longer based on what I recalled which were speed and agility, but these exercises were based on other skills. For example the kids were asked to blow sticks though tubes with the aim of hitting a target, then they had to do some running and balancing and then they had to strike a gong in a certain way to gain points for their team. So it was possible for anyone to win, not just the kid who is the athelete.
I have to say I liked this approach.
There was still recognition to the best and quickest teams, but everyone had equal chances.
Times have changed our practices and our schools have evolved. Inclusion matters, as does recognizing many strengths.
Does this make the kids less competitive?
I don't think so?
Does this make the day less fun?
I don't think so?
Does this shift make the world a better place?
I think quite possibly.
Thoughts anyone?
Day 90 of 100
I have been undertaking a walking challenge for 90 days now.
The challenge is 100 days long.
I am obsessed.
The challenge is with a group of 7 to walk at least 10,000 steps a day for the 100 days. It an external company who sets it up and encourages organizations to take part.
I have to confess I have not consistently walked 10,000 steps a day, but over the period, I have gotten increasingly better, and my average is now about 15,000. I think I started at about 6,000.
The step count also includes cycling, it does a fancy conversion thing.
What I have learned is that to do 10,000 steps a day, you really do have to change your habits and your mindset.
For example, when I have a meeting now with one other person, we walk.
We get up from the table, put on our coats, and we go outside. I tell you its wonderful, suddenly the conversation opens up and there are no boundaries. It really is a double win. You move and you think differently.
The mindset change I underwent was that going to run that errand was a good thing. So rather than thinking, oh do I really have to go to the post office, or get some milk. I now jump up and say, I will do it. Each trip add hundreds to the count. And 10,000 is not an easy feat. So you need a few errands a day to get to the goal.
I will report out on the results when complete, however I know that I have gradually upped my game. And not through more sport and more gym attendance, but through changing my habits.
I have been suprised by that.
Really suprised.
How much do you walk?
Are there slots in your day where you can squeeze it in?
Have a think, I was suprised how possible it was to change things.
The challenge is 100 days long.
I am obsessed.
The challenge is with a group of 7 to walk at least 10,000 steps a day for the 100 days. It an external company who sets it up and encourages organizations to take part.
I have to confess I have not consistently walked 10,000 steps a day, but over the period, I have gotten increasingly better, and my average is now about 15,000. I think I started at about 6,000.
The step count also includes cycling, it does a fancy conversion thing.
What I have learned is that to do 10,000 steps a day, you really do have to change your habits and your mindset.
For example, when I have a meeting now with one other person, we walk.
We get up from the table, put on our coats, and we go outside. I tell you its wonderful, suddenly the conversation opens up and there are no boundaries. It really is a double win. You move and you think differently.
The mindset change I underwent was that going to run that errand was a good thing. So rather than thinking, oh do I really have to go to the post office, or get some milk. I now jump up and say, I will do it. Each trip add hundreds to the count. And 10,000 is not an easy feat. So you need a few errands a day to get to the goal.
I will report out on the results when complete, however I know that I have gradually upped my game. And not through more sport and more gym attendance, but through changing my habits.
I have been suprised by that.
Really suprised.
How much do you walk?
Are there slots in your day where you can squeeze it in?
Have a think, I was suprised how possible it was to change things.
Top tips for saving a bit of money
I like a good bargain. I get a kick out of "free" money, and I know a lot of my friends share this passion.
So recently we were discussing the top tips for saving money, here they are:
1. Buy less meat
2. Use coupons for days out
3. Buy offers in supermarkets, eg buy one get one free
4. Reduce your TV subscriptions
5. Never buy water, take a bottle in your bag everywhere
6. Plan days out than involve no money eg picnic on a hill
7. Use the car less
8. Bring your old clothes, especially kids clothes to the "cash for clothes" shop
9. Make sandwiches for work
10. Swap movies with friends and neighbours
We came up with these in a matter of seconds and without too much thought, so imagine the list if we had gotten creative.
So in short there are many ways for saving a few pennies, and as a consequence showing the kids how to manage money too.
What are your top tips?
Do share.
So recently we were discussing the top tips for saving money, here they are:
1. Buy less meat
2. Use coupons for days out
3. Buy offers in supermarkets, eg buy one get one free
4. Reduce your TV subscriptions
5. Never buy water, take a bottle in your bag everywhere
6. Plan days out than involve no money eg picnic on a hill
7. Use the car less
8. Bring your old clothes, especially kids clothes to the "cash for clothes" shop
9. Make sandwiches for work
10. Swap movies with friends and neighbours
We came up with these in a matter of seconds and without too much thought, so imagine the list if we had gotten creative.
So in short there are many ways for saving a few pennies, and as a consequence showing the kids how to manage money too.
What are your top tips?
Do share.
Going swimming
For the last few years, I have worn a swim hat when going swimming. It's kind of an old fashioned looking one with flowers on. I think its rather sweet, if not a little retro.
It looks a little like this (and no this is not me!)
However today I forget to pack it.
I was out for a family outing at a swimming complex, where we were spending the whole day. It's a place with many slides and pools and hours of splashing fun.
Luckily I was weraring a head scarf when we arrived, so it was kind of easy for this to double up as a swim cap, but getting it too wet would be upleasant, as then I would have to suffer a damp and cold head for the remains of the day.
So I made no fuss, and just wore my head scarf, but it did mean I had to avoid the big splash fun stuff.
That was not fun.
I like being the fun mum, who goes on all the slides and rides, but today, my conditon got in the way.
I suppose I could have not let it, and opted for the bald approach. But alas, no. I went for the boring mum approach of " Don't worry, I will just watch".
So today was an avoidance day. It was unfortuntate.
Next time I will just have to pack better.
Sigh.
It looks a little like this (and no this is not me!)
However today I forget to pack it.
I was out for a family outing at a swimming complex, where we were spending the whole day. It's a place with many slides and pools and hours of splashing fun.
Luckily I was weraring a head scarf when we arrived, so it was kind of easy for this to double up as a swim cap, but getting it too wet would be upleasant, as then I would have to suffer a damp and cold head for the remains of the day.
So I made no fuss, and just wore my head scarf, but it did mean I had to avoid the big splash fun stuff.
That was not fun.
I like being the fun mum, who goes on all the slides and rides, but today, my conditon got in the way.
I suppose I could have not let it, and opted for the bald approach. But alas, no. I went for the boring mum approach of " Don't worry, I will just watch".
So today was an avoidance day. It was unfortuntate.
Next time I will just have to pack better.
Sigh.
Relief
Every sport has one. The relief you feel when you take an action to release the pressure, even the pain, that a particular sports equipment, has given you, for the duration of its usage.
Some examples:
Taking your ski boots off after a long day on the slopes.
Getting off your racing bike after a few hours of cycling.
Taking off your ice hockey helmet after a game.
Removing ice skates after a few hours at the rink.
Each release provides an "arrrr" effect.
And a cool beer helps that little bit more.
Any "arrrrr" effects going on out there???
Some examples:
Taking your ski boots off after a long day on the slopes.
Getting off your racing bike after a few hours of cycling.
Taking off your ice hockey helmet after a game.
Removing ice skates after a few hours at the rink.
Each release provides an "arrrr" effect.
And a cool beer helps that little bit more.
Any "arrrrr" effects going on out there???
The out of doors
Nothing gives you quite the same feeling as having a break and actually feeling a weekend, as staying outside for most of the day.
Recently I, and I know many others. have been arriving to work on Monday morning and feeling like its mid to late week already. The refreshed feeling of a weekend and a relaxing time seems a life time away. We seem to drag ourselves to work, rather than feeling ready for a fresh new week.
However after having spent a whole day outside today, Sunday, in the mountains, I have to say, I feel magnificient.
The sun clearly helped, but simply taking the car out of the city, into a new place, is simply unbeatable. We were outside from 9 til 4. Enjoying the fresh air and the surroundings of nature.
All four of us, laughing and exercising, together.
I must plan this more.
Simply re energizing like nothing else.
When was the last time you did that?
Do you have any plans to take you out?
Go look at your diary and see if you can squeeze one in.
Even the kids bickering stopped for a few hours, now that is most defintely worth any trip out.
Recently I, and I know many others. have been arriving to work on Monday morning and feeling like its mid to late week already. The refreshed feeling of a weekend and a relaxing time seems a life time away. We seem to drag ourselves to work, rather than feeling ready for a fresh new week.
However after having spent a whole day outside today, Sunday, in the mountains, I have to say, I feel magnificient.
The sun clearly helped, but simply taking the car out of the city, into a new place, is simply unbeatable. We were outside from 9 til 4. Enjoying the fresh air and the surroundings of nature.
All four of us, laughing and exercising, together.
I must plan this more.
Simply re energizing like nothing else.
When was the last time you did that?
Do you have any plans to take you out?
Go look at your diary and see if you can squeeze one in.
Even the kids bickering stopped for a few hours, now that is most defintely worth any trip out.
Body Posture
I don't think I have particulary good posture.
My shoulders kind of cave in and my back curls forward when I am at ease. Maybe it is the multiple hours at the computer that has caused this, but either way it's how I am made.
However when I pull my head up, straighten my spine and stick my chest out, it feels good.
It's bizarre but when I am in this upright position, I also feel more powerful, stronger and confident.
When I walk, consciously, and with good posture, I find myself feeling happier, This link is truly odd. I often find a breathe slower too.
That said, my posture slumps within minutes, back to comfort and rounded-ness. All I need is to lose my focus, forget my intent and that's me done.
During yoga, they teach you to stand as if, someone is pulling a string from the middle of your head up into the sky. It allows all of your muscles to join in and stretch that bit more upwards too. It feels like suddenly you are ten feet taller.
So how is your posture right now?
Feel like an immediate boost of power? Well sit up then. Bring your belly button back, stick out your chest bone, ground your feet into the floor and lift your chin?
How was that? A 10 second feel good moment I hope.
Happy sitting this week! May your posture bring you good things!
My shoulders kind of cave in and my back curls forward when I am at ease. Maybe it is the multiple hours at the computer that has caused this, but either way it's how I am made.
However when I pull my head up, straighten my spine and stick my chest out, it feels good.
It's bizarre but when I am in this upright position, I also feel more powerful, stronger and confident.
When I walk, consciously, and with good posture, I find myself feeling happier, This link is truly odd. I often find a breathe slower too.
That said, my posture slumps within minutes, back to comfort and rounded-ness. All I need is to lose my focus, forget my intent and that's me done.
During yoga, they teach you to stand as if, someone is pulling a string from the middle of your head up into the sky. It allows all of your muscles to join in and stretch that bit more upwards too. It feels like suddenly you are ten feet taller.
So how is your posture right now?
Feel like an immediate boost of power? Well sit up then. Bring your belly button back, stick out your chest bone, ground your feet into the floor and lift your chin?
How was that? A 10 second feel good moment I hope.
Happy sitting this week! May your posture bring you good things!
As fast as my little legs would carry us
A year ago, a friend of mine posted on Facebook that she had ran the annual "CityRun" of 5.5km through the Swiss city she lived in. She posted such a festive and happy photo that I felt obliged to say that this time next year I would run with her!! Easy to say when you are 6000 km away!
So a year later, having moved half way across the world, the time came to come good on my promise.
I signed up for the run. Under a little coercion and reminders from my dear friend.
The weather was beautiful, cold but crisp. Perfect for a run round our beautiful city.
All the Christmas lights were on, the crowds were out and with a few preparatory runs under our belt, we were feeling great!
I have posted before about my sporting tendencies, namely that I have them, but I can be a little lazy when it comes to the execution. I tend to hold back, cut corners and seek out breaks. I like to preserve my energy, just in case. I mean you never know, you might get chased by a lion on the way home.
However my lovely friend, is a little different.
She gives it some. She gives it her all in fact. She does not hold back.
So following the starting gun, she dragged me round the circuit, knees high, breathing fast and going as fast as our little legs would carry us.
This in itself was fine, however when the crowds roared and shouted us on, we naturally picked up our pace. The power of motivation was impressive. There was a direct link.
I tell you, I felt the pace change to our usual lunch time jog along the river.
But we made it, and how the crowds cheered, just for us!
I think it had everything to do with the fact that we were wearing santa hats and reindeer antlers! Even the local free press showed an interest.
Where do I sign up for next year???
So a year later, having moved half way across the world, the time came to come good on my promise.
I signed up for the run. Under a little coercion and reminders from my dear friend.
The weather was beautiful, cold but crisp. Perfect for a run round our beautiful city.
All the Christmas lights were on, the crowds were out and with a few preparatory runs under our belt, we were feeling great!
I have posted before about my sporting tendencies, namely that I have them, but I can be a little lazy when it comes to the execution. I tend to hold back, cut corners and seek out breaks. I like to preserve my energy, just in case. I mean you never know, you might get chased by a lion on the way home.
However my lovely friend, is a little different.
She gives it some. She gives it her all in fact. She does not hold back.
So following the starting gun, she dragged me round the circuit, knees high, breathing fast and going as fast as our little legs would carry us.
This in itself was fine, however when the crowds roared and shouted us on, we naturally picked up our pace. The power of motivation was impressive. There was a direct link.
I tell you, I felt the pace change to our usual lunch time jog along the river.
But we made it, and how the crowds cheered, just for us!
I think it had everything to do with the fact that we were wearing santa hats and reindeer antlers! Even the local free press showed an interest.
Where do I sign up for next year???
3 minutes and 59. 4 seconds - Teamwork
I recently heard about the story of the 4 minute mile.
Most people raised in England, would know it was Roger Bannister, who claimed the title of the first person to run the mile in under 4 minutes, but until a few weeks ago, I was oblivious to the story behind it and how it was actually achieved.
I just thought, there was a race, and he ran in it. Really fast.
However on reading a few articles on this sporting achievement, I was lead to understand that it was possibly, only through the support and trust of his pace setters, that he was able to achieve this monumental world record. The world record that changed the face of running forever.
On May 6, 1954, Bannister was to attempt the 4 minute mile that was believed, until then, to be unachieveable. Doctors were reported to have said that it was physically impossible, the lungs would collapse, the heart would explode etc.
Bannister had been training with his buddies Chris Brasher and Chris Chataway, and on that day, there were designated to help him and pace set for him, so he could achieve this dream.
You can see from the video footage of the race, how the run went. As they started, Brasher pulled out in front to set the pace. Bannister was clearly feeling confident, as he was heard yelling at Brasher, “Faster, faster!” But Brasher kept the practiced pace. Halfway, Brasher fell back and Chataway took the lead and set the pace.
At the end of the race, Chataway fell back and Bannister sprinted with all his might to the finish line and broke the 4 minute barrier. Experts agree that if Brasher wouldn’t have kept Bannister on pace, Bannister wouldn’t have had the “oomph” to finish as strong and he would have failed to break the barrier.
How amazing, it's seems that he could not have done this alone. Clearly this will never be known, but this is a wonderful story of teamwork and trust. Bannister had to trust his teammates knew what they were doing and his team mates had to keep their cool and resolve, under clear stress and emotion.
Clearly Brasher was capable of speeding up when he heard Bannister yelling, yet he continued to believe in their pre-agreed plan, regardless of the possible consequences.
These psychological elements, made the achievement seem even more remarkable to me.
Nowadays, the record is held by Hicham El Guerrouj from Morocco with a time of 3.43.13
Clearly a remarkable feat, but I love the story of Bannister's dream and his buddies best. Not sure if I would have kept the pace, I think I may have been swept up in the emotion and gone faster as Bannister yelled!
Most people raised in England, would know it was Roger Bannister, who claimed the title of the first person to run the mile in under 4 minutes, but until a few weeks ago, I was oblivious to the story behind it and how it was actually achieved.
I just thought, there was a race, and he ran in it. Really fast.
However on reading a few articles on this sporting achievement, I was lead to understand that it was possibly, only through the support and trust of his pace setters, that he was able to achieve this monumental world record. The world record that changed the face of running forever.
On May 6, 1954, Bannister was to attempt the 4 minute mile that was believed, until then, to be unachieveable. Doctors were reported to have said that it was physically impossible, the lungs would collapse, the heart would explode etc.
Bannister had been training with his buddies Chris Brasher and Chris Chataway, and on that day, there were designated to help him and pace set for him, so he could achieve this dream.
You can see from the video footage of the race, how the run went. As they started, Brasher pulled out in front to set the pace. Bannister was clearly feeling confident, as he was heard yelling at Brasher, “Faster, faster!” But Brasher kept the practiced pace. Halfway, Brasher fell back and Chataway took the lead and set the pace.
At the end of the race, Chataway fell back and Bannister sprinted with all his might to the finish line and broke the 4 minute barrier. Experts agree that if Brasher wouldn’t have kept Bannister on pace, Bannister wouldn’t have had the “oomph” to finish as strong and he would have failed to break the barrier.
How amazing, it's seems that he could not have done this alone. Clearly this will never be known, but this is a wonderful story of teamwork and trust. Bannister had to trust his teammates knew what they were doing and his team mates had to keep their cool and resolve, under clear stress and emotion.
Clearly Brasher was capable of speeding up when he heard Bannister yelling, yet he continued to believe in their pre-agreed plan, regardless of the possible consequences.
These psychological elements, made the achievement seem even more remarkable to me.
Nowadays, the record is held by Hicham El Guerrouj from Morocco with a time of 3.43.13
Clearly a remarkable feat, but I love the story of Bannister's dream and his buddies best. Not sure if I would have kept the pace, I think I may have been swept up in the emotion and gone faster as Bannister yelled!
Caro and number 6
Tonight the ice hockey season began . All summer we had been playing on in-line skates, but tonight the ice was back on and I was ready for it.
I was excited to get back on the ice and smell that particular smell of the rink. And to hear that particular sound of the zamboni, cleaning and smoothing the ice I love the anticipation of this bit.
There seemed a lot of people on the ice. And it was mixed sex. Never a good sign as men are usually really fast and good skaters.
There were drills explained on the board and off we went.
I always struggle with instructions of a certain length, and usually rely on my pretty good intuition and ability to copy. However tonight that was a stretch too far. I understood little and even worse could not follow. I ended up trying the exercises and feeling ridiculous, stupid and downright incompetent.
I gave myself some serious self talk.
"Don't give up" "This is something you have to go through to get better". "Everyone was at this stage once" etc etc.
I came back.
I tried again.
This time I couldn't even join in, I had inertia. If I felt stupid before, now I felt like a fraud. Who the hell did I think I was? Why did I think I could do this? What on earth was I thinking signing up to join the Swiss ice hockey league?
It was at this stage, tears began forming from sheer frustration. I felt absolutely rotten.
I could not control my emotion. I felt awful.
Shortly after an angel came to me, she wore a number 6 on her shirt. She said, "Don't worry it's tough this week and I remember starting out two years ago. It's hard". And then she smiled. A kind and warm smile, before skating off.
A while later, angel number 2 arrived. This one had a name, she said "Don't give up, it gets better, wait for two more weeks, when we are on our own ice. It's friendly and fun". And again a kind and warm smile.
The difference these two angels made. They gave me confidence and faith that maybe, just maybe, I can do this.
So ask me a year from now, if I did.
I really hope so.
And if not, well I guess there is only so much stretch a girl can pay for!!!
So finally let me leave you with this thought. Do you realise the impact your kind words can have on people? Do you think these two angels thought their comments would be blog worthy?
Unlikely.
So lets all go out there today, and consciously give encourgament and kind words to random people. If we do, things can only get better.
I was excited to get back on the ice and smell that particular smell of the rink. And to hear that particular sound of the zamboni, cleaning and smoothing the ice I love the anticipation of this bit.
There seemed a lot of people on the ice. And it was mixed sex. Never a good sign as men are usually really fast and good skaters.
There were drills explained on the board and off we went.
I always struggle with instructions of a certain length, and usually rely on my pretty good intuition and ability to copy. However tonight that was a stretch too far. I understood little and even worse could not follow. I ended up trying the exercises and feeling ridiculous, stupid and downright incompetent.
I gave myself some serious self talk.
"Don't give up" "This is something you have to go through to get better". "Everyone was at this stage once" etc etc.
I came back.
I tried again.
This time I couldn't even join in, I had inertia. If I felt stupid before, now I felt like a fraud. Who the hell did I think I was? Why did I think I could do this? What on earth was I thinking signing up to join the Swiss ice hockey league?
It was at this stage, tears began forming from sheer frustration. I felt absolutely rotten.
I could not control my emotion. I felt awful.
Shortly after an angel came to me, she wore a number 6 on her shirt. She said, "Don't worry it's tough this week and I remember starting out two years ago. It's hard". And then she smiled. A kind and warm smile, before skating off.
A while later, angel number 2 arrived. This one had a name, she said "Don't give up, it gets better, wait for two more weeks, when we are on our own ice. It's friendly and fun". And again a kind and warm smile.
The difference these two angels made. They gave me confidence and faith that maybe, just maybe, I can do this.
So ask me a year from now, if I did.
I really hope so.
And if not, well I guess there is only so much stretch a girl can pay for!!!
So finally let me leave you with this thought. Do you realise the impact your kind words can have on people? Do you think these two angels thought their comments would be blog worthy?
Unlikely.
So lets all go out there today, and consciously give encourgament and kind words to random people. If we do, things can only get better.
Messing about on the river
I have loved (and am still loving) Summer in my new city. My new old city.
You see, we are rediscovering it, and now we are doing things with little girls, rather than babies and toddlers.
Top of my list for Summer 2013 is Rhine swimming.
As you may know, through Basel flows the river Rhine. It has a very strong current and as a result the ships flow down the river at very fast speed. However, during a hot Summer, like this one, the current slows down a little and the water level drops, allowing people to float lazily a few kilometers down the river.
Hundreds and hundreds of people join in this activitiy on a hot day, and thousands over the summer period.
The float (calling it a swim suggests more activity that is actually required) goes from one end of the city to the other and gives the most sensational view of the whole city as you float by. The water is warm, 24 degrees and the sun can be hot. 33 degrees, the day we went.
There is a start point and an end point, and multiple other points of entry or departure along the way.
Below is a picture of the most used start point.
People, including me, my husband, my brave sister and our fearless little girls, jump in here, with their waterproof Rhine bags and begin the cruise down the river.
There are always many people around you, so you feel safe and in good company. The waterproof bags, designed purposefully for this activity, act as superb pillows, to make the journey even more enjoyable.
So next time you are in Basel and its a hot day, go to the Rhine and join in the fun. It's for the whole family and it's free!
You see, we are rediscovering it, and now we are doing things with little girls, rather than babies and toddlers.
Top of my list for Summer 2013 is Rhine swimming.
As you may know, through Basel flows the river Rhine. It has a very strong current and as a result the ships flow down the river at very fast speed. However, during a hot Summer, like this one, the current slows down a little and the water level drops, allowing people to float lazily a few kilometers down the river.
Hundreds and hundreds of people join in this activitiy on a hot day, and thousands over the summer period.
The float (calling it a swim suggests more activity that is actually required) goes from one end of the city to the other and gives the most sensational view of the whole city as you float by. The water is warm, 24 degrees and the sun can be hot. 33 degrees, the day we went.
There is a start point and an end point, and multiple other points of entry or departure along the way.
Below is a picture of the most used start point.
People, including me, my husband, my brave sister and our fearless little girls, jump in here, with their waterproof Rhine bags and begin the cruise down the river.
There are always many people around you, so you feel safe and in good company. The waterproof bags, designed purposefully for this activity, act as superb pillows, to make the journey even more enjoyable.
So next time you are in Basel and its a hot day, go to the Rhine and join in the fun. It's for the whole family and it's free!
Riding a bike with Alopecia
So if you have not worked it out by now, I love to ride my bike. I bike to work, I take my racing bike out on the weekends, I just love being outside and cycling through the streets. I cycle to restaurants, to conferences, even to hotels.
However wearing a wig on a bike is complicated.
If you don't wear a helmet it can fly off.
If you do wear a helmet, you can die of heat exhaustion..
So what to do?
Well I have mentioned my funky little hats before. I have an array of colours, sizes and styles. For my bike I have a particular type. It's like the one below (it's not me in the picture, it is taken out of the fabulous hat shop where I get them all from).
The advantage is that you have your head completely covered, and the bike helmet fits on beautifully. It also looks kind of normal, when you bump into people. Which I seem to do a lot in this small city.
It is also possible to take the helmet off on arrival, to work usually, then quickly scurry to the bathrooms to switch it for my hair. It's a bit of a hassle, but its like any other habit or process, you get used to it really quickly.
My biggest fear is getting to work and realizing that my wig is not in my handbag. Aghhhh!!
It has never happened before but you never know.
So that is my inconvenience of the day, what is yours?
We all have them, mine is about my hair, but yours may be about something completely different.
Do tell.
However wearing a wig on a bike is complicated.
If you don't wear a helmet it can fly off.
If you do wear a helmet, you can die of heat exhaustion..
So what to do?
Well I have mentioned my funky little hats before. I have an array of colours, sizes and styles. For my bike I have a particular type. It's like the one below (it's not me in the picture, it is taken out of the fabulous hat shop where I get them all from).
The advantage is that you have your head completely covered, and the bike helmet fits on beautifully. It also looks kind of normal, when you bump into people. Which I seem to do a lot in this small city.
It is also possible to take the helmet off on arrival, to work usually, then quickly scurry to the bathrooms to switch it for my hair. It's a bit of a hassle, but its like any other habit or process, you get used to it really quickly.
My biggest fear is getting to work and realizing that my wig is not in my handbag. Aghhhh!!
It has never happened before but you never know.
So that is my inconvenience of the day, what is yours?
We all have them, mine is about my hair, but yours may be about something completely different.
Do tell.
My four beetroots
I do not consider myself a gardener. I don't think I ever will be. Yet, I do like a nice garden. To sit in and look at. But work in. Mmmm, not really been my thing. For those of you who read last weeks post, there seems to be a bit of a theme here!!
I do love the idea of growing my own veg or herbs, but something always holds me back. I could blame it on time, but its more than this. I think it's a fear of failing. I mean how irrational is that? Who cares if my coriander wilts or my carrots don't sprout? But I think that's why I don't try. Also let's be clear, I don't have a clue how to start.
So whilst at a garden centre with my friend, I dared to buy four beetroot plants. I did stand in front of them for at least 15 minutes, deliberating if I could do this. Plucking up the courage to plunge into the depths of self sufficiency. I carefully, and with way too much deliberation, selected four little plants. I went crazy.
I had no idea that each plant only produced one veg, but hey, isn't this learning part of the process.
So I carefully took them home, planted them and subsequently watered them.
I walk past them most days and get excited, when I see them still standing upright. It's been a week now.
I think I need to be patient now and research a little on treatment and harvest time, but I am so excited about my first attempt at farming.
I have even began thinking if I should venture into a second veg. Any idea, what could still work?
Maybe I could get into this after all.
I do love the idea of growing my own veg or herbs, but something always holds me back. I could blame it on time, but its more than this. I think it's a fear of failing. I mean how irrational is that? Who cares if my coriander wilts or my carrots don't sprout? But I think that's why I don't try. Also let's be clear, I don't have a clue how to start.
So whilst at a garden centre with my friend, I dared to buy four beetroot plants. I did stand in front of them for at least 15 minutes, deliberating if I could do this. Plucking up the courage to plunge into the depths of self sufficiency. I carefully, and with way too much deliberation, selected four little plants. I went crazy.
I had no idea that each plant only produced one veg, but hey, isn't this learning part of the process.
So I carefully took them home, planted them and subsequently watered them.
I walk past them most days and get excited, when I see them still standing upright. It's been a week now.
I think I need to be patient now and research a little on treatment and harvest time, but I am so excited about my first attempt at farming.
I have even began thinking if I should venture into a second veg. Any idea, what could still work?
Maybe I could get into this after all.
Have you been swimming?
I have been asked this question two times over the past year. Both times I think it was the other persons mouth engaging before their brain did. Sounds harsh? Let me explain.
On both occasions, I was arriving at the gym and bumping into someone I vaguely knew. To paint the picture, I would haven been in my full workout attire, trainers, iPod and little fleece work out hat. And the complex I was entering was a gym. Nothing more, no pools, no ice, just a gym.
The question that was sprung at me was " hi there, have you err just been swimming?"
Both times I had no understanding of why the question was bring asked, but a few hours later it dawned on me. My sports cap looks somewhat like a swim cap.
Ok so I get the link. But duh???!
1. In both cases there was no pool within a 10 mile radius
2. And if I had been swimming, why oh why, would I keep the swim hat on, whilst getting completely dried and changed and changing the location??
Madness.
But you know what, I bet both of these men, actually realised their question was a little out of place, during the time that followed. And possibly even felt a little awkward, even silly when realising that I could not have been wearing a swim hat.
Either way. There are dumb questions after all.
On both occasions, I was arriving at the gym and bumping into someone I vaguely knew. To paint the picture, I would haven been in my full workout attire, trainers, iPod and little fleece work out hat. And the complex I was entering was a gym. Nothing more, no pools, no ice, just a gym.
The question that was sprung at me was " hi there, have you err just been swimming?"
Both times I had no understanding of why the question was bring asked, but a few hours later it dawned on me. My sports cap looks somewhat like a swim cap.
Ok so I get the link. But duh???!
1. In both cases there was no pool within a 10 mile radius
2. And if I had been swimming, why oh why, would I keep the swim hat on, whilst getting completely dried and changed and changing the location??
Madness.
But you know what, I bet both of these men, actually realised their question was a little out of place, during the time that followed. And possibly even felt a little awkward, even silly when realising that I could not have been wearing a swim hat.
Either way. There are dumb questions after all.
Look where you are going
I had the sheer pleasure of being part of an amazing team building experience recently. (Have I told you that I work for an amazing company??)
Anyway, there were a range of activities all targeted at a particular learning experience. After each activity we debriefed on what we had learned and how it applied back into our professional lives.
Each person experienced each activity differently and the impact varied.
However one particular experience only began resonating with me a week later. It was fun at the time, but I had not understood its impact.
The exercise was about driving on ice. We were on a race track with pretty fast and powerful cars and we had to get round the circuit as quickly as we could. As said the track was solid ice.
We had to learn to over steer and under steer, how to use the brakes and when to accelerate. We had co pilots who encouraged and offered tips. We had radios to communicate when we span out of control, frequently in my case, and we had specific terminology to communicate quickly and effectively.
The advice we were given, was to always focus on the path ahead. Look where you want to go and not where the car is taking you.
This was impossible for me at the beginning as I could only look where the car was going, ie into the snow banks, but whenever I looked onto the path ahead, somehow I got back on track.
And this is so true.
When things go wrong and go off on an unexpected tangent, we should always look where we want to go and get back on track. Often we find ourselves looking where the problems are and continuing on in that direction. Possibly getting ourselves deeper into the issues.
Driving on ice was surprisingly possible, despite being thrown about all the time and spinning regularly. It was always possible to get back on the track, by seeking out the path ahead.
Today when I was cross country skiing, I fell. This was no big deal, but all the same I fell. It was an ungroomed path and I was concentrating on, and looking at, the ungroomed path beneath my skis. I fell mid way down the slope.
The next time this happened, I said to myself, focus on the path ahead, keep your eyes up and look to where you want to go. I swear I did not fall. I did not even wobble. I knew where I wanted to go and remained focussed on that during the 15 second descent.
So today's post, is dedicated to all of you who are stuck in a rut and can't find a way out. I say life is like driving on ice, focus on the path ahead, and somehow your wheels will turn and you will find a way out.
This may sound overly simplistic, but I believe in it.
Maybe knowing the path ahead is the hardest thing of all, so make sure you really know where it is that you are going. Once you know that and keep looking at it, you will get there. Of that I am sure.
Anyway, there were a range of activities all targeted at a particular learning experience. After each activity we debriefed on what we had learned and how it applied back into our professional lives.
Each person experienced each activity differently and the impact varied.
However one particular experience only began resonating with me a week later. It was fun at the time, but I had not understood its impact.
The exercise was about driving on ice. We were on a race track with pretty fast and powerful cars and we had to get round the circuit as quickly as we could. As said the track was solid ice.
We had to learn to over steer and under steer, how to use the brakes and when to accelerate. We had co pilots who encouraged and offered tips. We had radios to communicate when we span out of control, frequently in my case, and we had specific terminology to communicate quickly and effectively.
The advice we were given, was to always focus on the path ahead. Look where you want to go and not where the car is taking you.
This was impossible for me at the beginning as I could only look where the car was going, ie into the snow banks, but whenever I looked onto the path ahead, somehow I got back on track.
And this is so true.
When things go wrong and go off on an unexpected tangent, we should always look where we want to go and get back on track. Often we find ourselves looking where the problems are and continuing on in that direction. Possibly getting ourselves deeper into the issues.
Driving on ice was surprisingly possible, despite being thrown about all the time and spinning regularly. It was always possible to get back on the track, by seeking out the path ahead.
Today when I was cross country skiing, I fell. This was no big deal, but all the same I fell. It was an ungroomed path and I was concentrating on, and looking at, the ungroomed path beneath my skis. I fell mid way down the slope.
The next time this happened, I said to myself, focus on the path ahead, keep your eyes up and look to where you want to go. I swear I did not fall. I did not even wobble. I knew where I wanted to go and remained focussed on that during the 15 second descent.
So today's post, is dedicated to all of you who are stuck in a rut and can't find a way out. I say life is like driving on ice, focus on the path ahead, and somehow your wheels will turn and you will find a way out.
This may sound overly simplistic, but I believe in it.
Maybe knowing the path ahead is the hardest thing of all, so make sure you really know where it is that you are going. Once you know that and keep looking at it, you will get there. Of that I am sure.
Possible intents
I dapple with yoga. I enjoy the intensity and the intent. I equally enjoy the speed at which any posture and it's difficulty are over. It is a quick and concentrated effort versus a run or a long bike ride. I do however find yoga extremely difficult. It requires strength and focus, both of which I am seriously lacking!
So as I said, every now and again I go along to a class. As much as I enjoy the stretch and the physical demands, I am also fascinated by the spirituality behind it. The stories and explanations are simply lovely. Dare I say, even inspirational. The thought of inner harmony or practising a discipline which offers physical, mental and emotional strength all in one go, sounds like a good deal to me! The thought of relaxing the mind and turning off the internal TV, even for a matter of minutes, sounds like sheer heaven. So in theory I am bought in.
Anyway, this morning I intended to go to a yoga class. I had freed up the time in my day and thought I would be rolling out my purple mat, one more time.
However I fell at the first hurdle and I didn't go.
Someone asked if I was available at that time and I said, without any hesitation, yes. Why did I agree so quickly? Had I forgotten? Was the request so important? Well no, not really. Was I looking for an excuse? Possibly.
Either way I didn't go.
Later on in the day, I was grumpy with myself. Why hadn't I gone, even when I thought I had wanted to? My behaviour was really quite lame. The reason I came up with, was that I had never really committed to going. I had not mentally made this a priority for my day. Basically I had not committed enough. I thought I had, but when it came down to it, I found a reason not to go. Something else was more important. So all that I really had, was a possible intent. And let's face it, possible intent, was never going to happen! Never ever.
Is this why we never get round to doing the things we want to? Is it as simple as committing, I mean really committing, versus having "only" good intentions?
If it is, I am going to stop wasting my time and energy by pretending that I might do something, namely having lots of possible intents. Instead I am going to make fewer but more real commitments. Committments that I really will protect fiercely.
Ask me in a few weeks, to see if it has made a difference?
So as I said, every now and again I go along to a class. As much as I enjoy the stretch and the physical demands, I am also fascinated by the spirituality behind it. The stories and explanations are simply lovely. Dare I say, even inspirational. The thought of inner harmony or practising a discipline which offers physical, mental and emotional strength all in one go, sounds like a good deal to me! The thought of relaxing the mind and turning off the internal TV, even for a matter of minutes, sounds like sheer heaven. So in theory I am bought in.
Anyway, this morning I intended to go to a yoga class. I had freed up the time in my day and thought I would be rolling out my purple mat, one more time.
However I fell at the first hurdle and I didn't go.
Someone asked if I was available at that time and I said, without any hesitation, yes. Why did I agree so quickly? Had I forgotten? Was the request so important? Well no, not really. Was I looking for an excuse? Possibly.
Either way I didn't go.
Later on in the day, I was grumpy with myself. Why hadn't I gone, even when I thought I had wanted to? My behaviour was really quite lame. The reason I came up with, was that I had never really committed to going. I had not mentally made this a priority for my day. Basically I had not committed enough. I thought I had, but when it came down to it, I found a reason not to go. Something else was more important. So all that I really had, was a possible intent. And let's face it, possible intent, was never going to happen! Never ever.
Is this why we never get round to doing the things we want to? Is it as simple as committing, I mean really committing, versus having "only" good intentions?
If it is, I am going to stop wasting my time and energy by pretending that I might do something, namely having lots of possible intents. Instead I am going to make fewer but more real commitments. Committments that I really will protect fiercely.
Ask me in a few weeks, to see if it has made a difference?
Lazy athlete
I am a relatively active person. I will have a go at just about anything. From swimming to cycling, from skating to rock climbing, from hockey to rugby. I will give it a go. I am not particularly good at any of these things, but that's fine I don't strive to be.
However whatever activity I am pursuing, I am always looking for a short cut, a cheat, a way to avoid pain or exhaustion. Take today for example, I wanted to go on a 5 km jog with a friend. We have a route which is always the right distance and reliable. However today my friend couldn't make it so I decided to go alone. So I dressed and headed out as usual. Down the cycle path, under the golf course, along the main road and back up "Cedar" via the train station. The route is so familiar that I could do it in my sleep. However today I was on my own, so what did I do?
I cheated.
I took another road and cut off the corner. Why? I don't know. I just wanted to.
As a result I jogged for 4.6 km not the usual 5.
I always do this, in my masters swimming course, I intentionally miss out one lap. At circuit training, I procrastinate in picking up the skipping rope, and usually finish a few seconds earlier. You name it, I have found a way to cheat.
Is it because I can? Is it because I am mischievous? Is it because I am exhausted? Is it because I am lazy? I don't know.
Am I the only one doing this? It seems a bit odd and I can't seem to break the pattern!
Insights anyone?
Am I the only one doing this? It seems a bit odd and I can't seem to break the pattern!
Insights anyone?
Olympic dreams
Like many, my family are also in full Olympic fever. This has never happened to us before, but boy are we embracing it now. We get up most mornings and see what has been happening in London whilst we were sleeping. After a full recap and a few hours watching the live activites, we review the next days events so we know what we can look forward to.
We are however a little confused about who to support as we were all born in different countries and live in a fifth, so we cheer on five nations proudly. Although I do have to declare that my eldest daughter has been caught routing for China, but I think that's down to their fancy swim suits!
We even found ourselves blubbering, when Canada got their first gold for trampolining. It was so emotional. A reaction that took us by surprise on many accounts.
The kids are loving it too. We now have conversations about what it takes to be an Olympian and whether any of us will ever make it! I am not sure my answers are fully informed, but the girls seem to accept them.
Watching people be at their personal best and unfortunately experience some personal lows is so heart wrenching. It is incredible viewing, with a whole lot of morales.
So with a few days left to go. Go team Canada! Germany! Team GB! CH! Belgium! And ...........China!
Keep inspiring us and teaching us and who knows, maybe one of my girls, may have had a seed planted, for living their own Olympic dreams! An Olympic mum, I like the sound of that.
Now back to the 3m female diving finals!
We are however a little confused about who to support as we were all born in different countries and live in a fifth, so we cheer on five nations proudly. Although I do have to declare that my eldest daughter has been caught routing for China, but I think that's down to their fancy swim suits!
We even found ourselves blubbering, when Canada got their first gold for trampolining. It was so emotional. A reaction that took us by surprise on many accounts.
The kids are loving it too. We now have conversations about what it takes to be an Olympian and whether any of us will ever make it! I am not sure my answers are fully informed, but the girls seem to accept them.
Watching people be at their personal best and unfortunately experience some personal lows is so heart wrenching. It is incredible viewing, with a whole lot of morales.
So with a few days left to go. Go team Canada! Germany! Team GB! CH! Belgium! And ...........China!
Keep inspiring us and teaching us and who knows, maybe one of my girls, may have had a seed planted, for living their own Olympic dreams! An Olympic mum, I like the sound of that.
Now back to the 3m female diving finals!
Being present
A while ago I gave up listening to music as I ran. I am not a hobby runner, nor do I particularly enjoy it. However it is a free sport that is easy to access and keeps me looking the way I want to. This last phrase says a lot about who I am, however more about that another time.
About a year ago I committed to a friend that I would do a half marathon, I considered this challenge long and hard and over a period of 3 weeks, I finally committed. After this decision, in true style (which is why I think long and hard about what I agree to) I threw myself into the program, including a ghastly four run a week schedule and taking additional supplements after a long run to regenerate the body as soon as possible.
As I proceeded through the weeks, despite a grueling work-travel schedule, I began to notice a pattern. Some runs I enjoyed more than others. I began to analyze why, was it the location, the length, the time of day, my state of wellbeing or something else. Clearly all of these factors contributed to the run at some level, however the biggest differentiator was whether I had my music blasting into my ears or not.
About a year ago I committed to a friend that I would do a half marathon, I considered this challenge long and hard and over a period of 3 weeks, I finally committed. After this decision, in true style (which is why I think long and hard about what I agree to) I threw myself into the program, including a ghastly four run a week schedule and taking additional supplements after a long run to regenerate the body as soon as possible.
As I proceeded through the weeks, despite a grueling work-travel schedule, I began to notice a pattern. Some runs I enjoyed more than others. I began to analyze why, was it the location, the length, the time of day, my state of wellbeing or something else. Clearly all of these factors contributed to the run at some level, however the biggest differentiator was whether I had my music blasting into my ears or not.
At first I believed that running with music contributed positively to the experience, which maybe it did at the beginning, however as my endurance improved, the opposite became clear. I began to realize that the experience of running alone and in silence was the more pleasant of the two. The ability to be present in my activity rather than wishing I was somewhere else, or taking my mind of it, was the key. Being present. Mmmmmm. Sounds a bit weird but here is what that meant to me, it meant simply to begin looking at the people on my path, observing the river I was running along, seeing the faces of the bored people at bus queues, looking into the eyes of people in cars, in short I was watching life, being part of life.
I then began realizing and wondering what I had missed on previous runs or even car drives or even worse conversations with friends. What had I missed as I was not mentally present, what had I not heard, what had I not understood, had I even missed any cry for helps, had I missed making someone feel special by endorsing them and their achievements. Oh lord what kind of friend had I been?
So as I live in 2012, all I aim for is to be more present. See life as it is, feel emotions as they are and breathe in the moment with the people around me. I may even consider giving up doing my shopping lists in management meetings, but maybe this is just taking it a little too far.
So as I live in 2012, all I aim for is to be more present. See life as it is, feel emotions as they are and breathe in the moment with the people around me. I may even consider giving up doing my shopping lists in management meetings, but maybe this is just taking it a little too far.
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