Why is stopping or resting so hard for some of us yet so easy for others? My cat, Crooked (as seen above), seems to have no problem resting. When I was depressed or physically ill/injured, rest was the only thing I could do. Now that I’m healthy, I don’t feel right unless I’ve moved my body & sweat that day. Recent articles in Runner’s World & Triathlon magazine emphasize how when training for long-distance runs and triathlons, greater sleep along with yoga determine how well your training sticks. Rest, whether it’s through extra sleep or non-activity or restorative yoga, is VITAL for muscle recovery. While our training does strengthen our muscles, it also breaks them down, especially if we don’t eat/drink properly immediately after our sessions (within the first 30 minutes: 250-500 calories of carbs & protein @ 3:1 ratio).
Intentional Resting (IR) is a useful way to practice rest or relaxation on your OFF/REST day. IR is similar to visualization meditation & the body scan used in Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy & Kripalu Yoga, which that I practice with clients and groups. Visit me at Awakened Living Therapeutics in Hoover to find which techniques can help maximize the effectiveness of rest & relaxation in your training program.
