In our acheivement driven world, sometimes we are so focused on the outcome or results, we forget to pay attention to the input. As yoga, diet and nutrition and our environment teach us, what we experience in our day to day lives; what we eat, what we breathe, what we look at, and listen to all have profound effects on our psyche.
In any creative endeavor we embark in, we are often reminded to "fill the well"; to watch a play, sketch at the ocean, or get lost in the woods-- to rejuvinate and gain inspiration from things we love. Otherwise, if we just push ourselves to create and produce at all times, we will be depleted.
In my experience, this same thing is true with athletics. What we put into our bodies and minds is equally as important as our performance, or output. I ran intervals with a running group this morning, and afterwards felt cranky and depleted. No wonder! Two days of pretty steadily paced workouts, and I'm in need of some serious refueling!
Here's what I eat for most lunches-- a huge garden grown salad with plenty of protein from avocado, hemp seeds, hummus and a homemade creamy cashew dressing. (recipes to come, I promise!)
Your mind also requires fuel and rest after intense workouts. I find that at least once a week I need to take a total break from training, running, or even thinking about sports. I take a bus to another town, and wander the streets going to art galleries and cheap movies, or zone out in front of the t.v., or go to a botanical garden or natural spot and simply be.
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