Hanging around

Since the marathon, I have been resting, recovering and taking a break from the intense exercise regime that was my training.  I have still been running but have lessened my mileage significantly.

For about 4 months, my mind was set on one goal.  Running and finishing my first marathon.  Now that this goal has been accomplished, I feel a loss.   So much open space where there was once structure and I am not handling it well.  It's like I don't know what to do with myself.  The times I have been running lately, I have felt some knee pain so I am backing off a bit.  I think I may need new sneakers ( I really hope that is the issue).   So that is another reason for the break or "hiatus".  But what do I do in the meantime?

Its funny~ when I was training, I always wished for more time! I felt so busy! And now that I have it, I am not sure what to do.  I catch myself eating or going out more often, which has been fun but without regular exercise, these activities only make me feel guilty.  I think - I shouldn't have eaten that piece of pizza or had the ice cream.  When I was training I ate anything I wanted, still was losing weight and never felt guilt! It was great!  Now that training is over, I am trying to watch what I eat but hey its the holidays so rich and indulgent foods are everywhere.  

I know what I need, I need a new goal - a new project, a new something.  I feel sort of stagnant, like an ornament on my tree, I am just hanging around...My hope is that I can find motivation because I don't want to end up in the old dusty box along with my other ornaments only to make an appearance once a year.

When I decided to run a marathon, the idea just came to me and I literally ran with it.  I am hoping something else exciting and attractive comes along again soon. I have thought about a triathlon or maybe more trail running but so far, it hasn't made me feel that electric energy I felt when I decided to take on the 26.2 challenge.

I have been doing some research on running websites and it sounds like the feelings I am experiencing aren't too far from the norm, I just hope to get out of this funk soon.

That being said, It's Christmas and I am going to be surrounded by family and friends for the next two days.  I feel truly blessed.

Going with the flow and enjoying the season (and the cookies too)!

Happy Holidays