Recently, I took a set back from my Bikram Yoga practice. We’re all working towards balance in our lives, and my body was telling me that it was what I needed to do to get closer to my equilibrium. I was overheated and clinging to a habit; I needed to let go of the hot room (again).
Enter: the hiking trails of Los Angeles.
Since moving to the West Coast, I’ve fallen in love with the challenge of a rugged uphill climb; of reaching the summit and feeling on top of the world. The views of California from above are spectacular and nothing beats the outdoors in this scenic state, especially with the Pacific as the glamorous subject on a sunny day. It shimmers like glitter.
Little did I know that this new passion would give way to an embrace of my Achilles Heel – running. Over years gone by, all attempts at running have left me feeling helpless. Excuses would include: “Running hurts my knees,” “I get shin splints”, and “I can’t breathe properly”. Recently however, short sprints here and there along the trail have left me feeling uplifted… and perplexed.
Uplifted because it feels great to run! My knees feel fine, the shin splints are non existent, and my even breathing is a support instead of a hindrance.
Puzzled though because I’ve been left wondering: Has my frequent Bikram Yoga practice conditioned my body; prepared it to allow for the experience of the lauded “runner’s high”? All I know for sure is that my fear of running had been tackled and conquered. And it feels really good!
Which means: I’m up for some experimentation. I’m on the quest to find the right balance for me, for now, with a hiking and trail running regime in conjunction with a regular Bikram practice.
I’m looking forward to developing this new skill and will be dedicating a few future posts to the topic of Running and Yoga. I’m honoured to be sharing an interview with Sage Rountree – internationally recognized authority in yoga for athletes and an endurance sports coach, in my next post.
It’s a liberating feeling to let things go, to confront weakness, and to conquer fears as it reminds the Self of its infinite potential. I’m excited of where this newfound passion will take me. If anything, I already feel empowered…
Filed under: Bikram Yoga, Fitness, Inspiration, Life, Lifestyle, Musings, Sports Tagged: athletes, hiking, Los Angeles, lululemon, Running, Sage Rountree, trails, yoga
