Recovery...

It's been about 3 weeks since my last posting... Before the army half marathon, I injured my left calf. So it's been a recovery journey for me since then. Am not 100% yet but I am getting there. Soon enough! hahaha... Keeping positive thoughts!

It was a really strange injury as there were no signs or symptoms. It just happened! Just like that!! I was running comfortable and felt really strong. Then it happened and I had to stop. It is interesting to think how strong and fragile our bodies can be at any point in time. Honestly, I think it was also my body's way of telling me to slow down. I've been pretty full on with work and squeezing in training. So I am taking it slow now.

I must say that it can be quite a challenge. I have to be really patient and not hurry to get back into shape quickly as the injure may re-occur. And we don't want that! I certainly don't. So I have had to be really patient. From rehabilitating my self back from water running to running on the ground to running without pain. From there it was running continuously for 5mins, 10mins, and so on until I got to 60mins or more. The speed in which I was running was slow... A pace at which I am really not used to initially but it was necessary. I must admit that I am very fortunate to be recovering and healing fairly quickly. I have managed to pick up my pace a little however, it is still a far cry from the speed I used to run. Patience!! I am patient! And it is key to recover! I know I will get back to where I 'left off" soon enough.

I do have to share that I am kind of enjoying this recovery and healing period. It's been a learning journey in itself. It has taught me to be really patient and to always think long term, even on days when I feel good and want to run further and/or faster. I have been reminding myself to think long term! Also the thought of not wanting to be laid off running for weeks on end or months has helped to keep me in check ;op So that itself is enough to keep me patient!

Now, I am just happy that I can run. Even, if it means running shorter distances and at slower speeds, I am contented =o) Like my professor used to say "Be thankful for small favors"! So I am very thankful for being able to at least run! Yippie!! I am back on my feet again. So for anyone out there recovering from an injury, take heart... Do all the right things and You will see the light!!

Race Day! - Part III

All the Fifth Ray Runners are Back! And all in good times too! Congratulations to all! A number of the runners clocked personal best times and sub-2hr half marathon times. Excellent achievements! You deserve a pat on your back! =0) Rest well... See you all back on the track on Tuesday.

Rubina experienced some tightness in her right quads and Charlene managed her ITB syndrome well during the race. Well done, ladies! You fought a brave battle =0)

Race Day! - Part II

I am sitting at the cafe feeling butterflies in my tummy and rather distracted as I constantly look at the time on watch! Truly feeling like an anxious coach waiting for all the Fifth Ray runners to complete their race! Keeping positive thoughts that all are having a smooth and uneventful race. Looking forward to each and everyone of them crossing the finishing line. The first of the Fifth Ray runners should be finishing soon. Will web on my way to welcome them back soon.... Look out for Part III!

Race Day! - Part I

It was a difficult decision not participant in the half marathon race this morning. I was really looking forward to running the race with the Fifth Ray running group. However, it was not to be. I pulled my calf muscle on Thursday and it was a toss between running this race and be laid off for a few months or to give it the rest it deserves and think long term. As you can tell, I have chosen the latter =o) There's always another race, another day!

Although I was not running in the race, I was at the Fifth Ray meeting place to cheer on the runners. I am now at a cafe sipping my drink and blogging as I am waiting for time to pass to welcome the runners back to the finishing line. I must admit that I am very amazed at the number of participants who are streaming into the cafe and the long queue at fast food restaurant next door. All these individuals had number tags pinned on their chest. Hence, they are not supporters but rather participants for the race. Obviously, proper pre-race nutrition was not being practiced =0) Each to it's own but I do wish that these individuals will be better informed about proper nutrition and hydration pre-race for their future races. One can but wish for the good of others =o)

The race will be flagged off in 5mins! All the BEST everyone! Enjoy and have a great race! More updates later.

Living A Beautiful Life

My cousin just shared with me a youtube clip which I would like to share with everyone. It truly shows that in any given situation we are in, we really have two choices. ONE is to choose to be miserable, complain and focus on what we do not have or TWO is to choose to be happy, count our blessings, be thankful for all that we DO HAVE, and live the beautiful life we have been given.

The clip shows a young man's Spirit to live his life to the fullest and best of his ability with what he DOES HAVE is inspiring and moving. He has made our 'challenges, struggles, frustrations' (if we have the right to call them that now) pale in comparison.

Life is what WE make it out to be; NOT what life brings to us!!

Enjoy the clip and be inspired to live your life beautifully:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9DilOIZMu4&feature=related

Liu Wei - Armless Pianist - China's Got Talent 8-8-2010