My Glutes Are So Sore

Posted by SandraDee on Feb 19, 2008

What a great day!

It has been so long since I have felt as elated I do right now. I have been diligently trying to stay true to manifesting/creating a lifestyle change. So far so good.

I participated in my first yoga class “ever”…what the hell was I thinking…? For a girl who has all the agility of a brick, yoga is no easy feat. Excuse me, but, is there a pink elephant in the room? Wow, talk about sticking out like a sore thumb. I believe the only pose that I actually got right was the downward-facing dog. Other than that, I was pretty much a fish without water. Have you ever seen the “Seinfeld” episode where Elaine dances….I needn’t say anymore.

However, I will go on. I like the idea and concepts behind yoga. The practice of yoga allows one to explore, develop, and integrate the body, mind and spirit. The word YOGA is a Sanskrit term that means “to yoke; to unite”. Your entire person, being body, mind and soul working together makes this much more than just a physical fitness program. The benefits of just taking one yoga session per week (I’ve committed to 2, being the little (big) eager beaver that I am) are great. For example:

  • Dramatic increases in flexibility and strength
  • Increased circulation to all internal organs and glands
  • A calming effect to the nervous system
  • Greatly improved concentration (one I’m looking forward too)
  • Releasing and cleansing of toxins that contribute to stress and disease

yoga.jpegWith all those wonderful benefits I should be a new woman my summer! Hopefully, I won’t feel so awkward and will begin to understand and implement the true purpose of yoga. Not to mention, I will be able to stand on one leg in the yoga “tree” position. (who knew that was going to be so hard?)


Aches, Pains and Snowfalls

Posted by SandraDee on Feb 13, 2008

I haven’t been able to write a post for a couple of days primarily due to the fact that I started back at the gym this week. Now, when I say back, it has been at least 5 years (probably more, but I live in denial) since I have really had any long lasting relationships with any fitness clubs, sneakers, activity…you get the picture. The sad part is, my first day…it was only the orientation…I did not even have to do the “full benefits” package, I couldn’t believe how sore I was…my fingers even hurt. Also, I could not lift my arms high enough to reach the keyboard. I cannot believe how out of shape I am. A sad reality.

But, as I said (previous post) it’s New Year’s and a time for resolutions. Get fit, get healthy, be happy and live long.

So, at the gym the other day, while walking on the treadmill, I started thinking…what is the difference between a “rut” and a “routine”? Because, I am sure I suffer from one of those. None the less, still a question that requires an answer. According to “The Concise Oxford Dictionary” (my personal favorite) a rut is: “an established mode of practice or procedure”, a routine: “a regular course or procedure”…it would appear that there is really no difference at all. Yet everyone lives, works and likes routine, but hates being in a rut…weird.

Did I happen to mention that my mind goes to strange places when I am bored walking on a treadmill? I still think it is interesting though. Perhaps, routines are things that you are happy doing and ruts not so happy, but habitual…I’ll go with that for today.

I keep thinking that there is some outer force putting the kibosh on my endeavor to develop a new 2008 routine. I was so excited to get back to the gym this morning in anticipation of how sore I would be tomorrow, but, we are having this nasty weather and my vehicle would not start…really, hubby said it wouldn’t even turn over…and I know he’s not trying to sabotage my fitness plans (there is a huge meaning behind that comment that only he will get, out of moral correctness I cannot discuss it). This is a picture taken after our latest snow storm…resizewinter.jpgAfter the first snowfall I had to pour hot water on the doors due to the fact that they were locked shut it’s been a huge mess ever since. In addition my daughter and I have been housebound for a couple of days now and if I have to watch one more “Barbie” movie I am going to snap. (some might say it is too late for that) Also, I miss my workouts…I was going to re-associate myself with an aerobics class this week. Admittedly, I am a little nervous about doing heavy cardio for fear of having a heart attackĀ  half way through. Hopefully there will be someone there with their St. John’s Ambulance certification.

I’ll keep you posted.