We dream big, seek out inspiration and love leaning into our goals. We do the work to get there, chasing experts and advice to help us, and equip ourselves with the tools we need. When we arrive at our goal we play hard, seeking lasting memories so we can whoop with joy after we complete it. Sometimes we fall short too, but in these moments we gain hunger for more next time. As we lie in bed early the next morning, the mission still glowing inside us, we are already thinking...
What next?
There is nothing wrong with hatching big dreams, chasing big goals and coming home brimming with mojo for our 'what next?' However, we do need to realise that we are not robots. We need rest and recuperation to heal and empower our mind, body and spirit. So, before we begin hatching our next plan, how about we explore the art of recuperation?
Re-balanceRe-balancing is about recognising that we have played harder in favour of our physical pursuits. Here are some activities that we love to bring ourselves back into balance:
YIN YOGA MEDITATION MASSAGE SELF-MASSAGE DYNAMIC COMPRESSION Re-activateBefore we embark on preparing for our next adventure, it is important to re-activate tired, sleepy and hopefully now rested muscles. Here are some tools that we use:
WALK BAREFOOT FLOW YOGA PILATES WHOLE BODY VIBRATION GLUTE ACTIVATION EXERCISES ENJOY NON-WEIGHT BEARING ACTIVITIES RechargeAIM FOR 9HRS SLEEP, PREFERABLY WITH MORE BEFORE MIDNIGHT
MEDITATE TAKE A REST WEEK & ADDED REST DAYS INCREASE SUNSHINE EXPOSURE SLOWLY BUILD BACK INTO 'TRAINING' SPEND MORE TIME IN NATURE Re-connectHumans are tribal creatures. At times it is important to surround ourself with people who just 'get it' and are excited for what we have achieved. Now that we have a little more time and energy, let us use it to re-connect with those individuals who make us feel buoyant:
SHARE A HIGHLIGHT ON OUR INSTAGRAM PAGE & FACEBOOK GROUP HEAD OUT FOR A CUPPA SIT IN NATURE TOGETHER CALL A FRIEND RECONNECT WITH FAMILY WRITE A LETTER OR POSTCARD TO SOMEONE SPECIAL INITIATE A RECOVERY JOG IN OUR COMMUNITY |
ReflectToo often we launch back into life and fail to stand back to marvel at just what we have achieved. Take some time to wander slowly, celebrate the outcome and reflect. We like to:
WANDER QUIETLY JOURNAL CREATE A CELEBRATION SHARE OUR HIGHLIGHTS Re-fuelThe days after a big endeavour are critical for re-fueling. Here are some tips:
REPLACE ELECTROLYTES TILL URINE IS CLEAR EAT MORE PLANTS AVOID TOO MUCH CAFFEINE OR STIMULANTS AIM FOR NUTRIENT DENSE FOODS AVOID FASTING Remember for laterDon't allow these memories to blur into others. Perhaps now is a great time too:
KEEP A LIST OF YEARLY ENDEAVOURS ON YOUR FRIDGE BEGIN A JOURNAL SEND POSTCARDS FROM LOCATIONS TO A FRIEND START A PHOTO BOOK ENLARGE A PHOTO FOR THE WALL CHANGE YOUR SCREEN SAVER |
Practice
Finally, the art of recovery & recuperation takes practice. It is something that we need to commit to on a daily, weekly and long-term practice. Incorporating some of the suggestions above will assist you in this process which can be quite intimidating for us go-go-energizer types! The most important reason for dedicating ourselves to this practice is promote hormonal equilibrium by reducing cortisol production, our stress hormone, in favour of our sexual hormones which promote repair and a sensation of wellbeing.