Running
One of my favourite runs in Gijón - down to the beach and then up to the sculpture affectionately called ‘King Kong’s Toilet’ by the locals, but actually named Elogio del Horizonte. Felt better than my heart rate would indicate, so mentally fitter at least!
Yoga
Last practice of 2023 - an hour of restorative yoga. Really needed that after the drive to the airport and the flight. Everything was feeling very tight so that did the trick.
Running
A little chilly again this morning, but much warmer than London running. Heading up to Gijón to see the in-laws and my nieces later today. Looking forward to some runs by the sea, although I suspect it will be colder and probably wetter too. Strava
Yoga
Another lovely (short) practice tonight. Just the sun salutations, a couple of standing poses and 10 long breaths in Sirsasana. Wearing my “Spanish Yoga (Siesta)“ T-shirt that Carmen and Estefany bought for me on their last trip to Seville.
Running
Lovely conditions for this morning’s run. Around 10 degrees, sun beginning to poke through the clouds and a very gentle breeze. There is often that moment of deliberation when I climb out of bed: Will it matter if I miss today? The simple fact is, if you’re fortunate
Podcasts
Avik Chakraborty, host of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life - the podcast that explores the connection between our mental wellbeing and our overall health - welcomed me on to his show today: “I'm excited to welcome a very special guest who's making a real difference in the world of fintech and
Walking
No run today as we were up and out early for a trip to Sevilla. Beautiful sunny day with plenty of blue skies, but a chilly wind. We went to a couple of vegan restaurants that Carmen had visited previously and she took a selfie with footballer, Héctor Bellerín, who
Yoga
As the sun began to set, I rolled out the mat for 25 minutes of Sun Salutations followed by Padanghustasana Padahastasana and Trikonasana A before taking rest. Feeling very inflexible!
Running
Definitely a little warmer than the pre-breakfast run. Heart rate is continuing to fall and the hills feel just a tad less hilly. Just need to keep going. This time of year, consistency to my birthday is often a goal. Let’s try to each that. It’s around seven
Yoga
More ‘gentle return to the mat’ yoga this afternoon, with Surya Namaskara A and B. I remember David Swenson saying something along the lines of “the mat doesn’t judge” implying that it’s always there to welcome you back, no matter how weak, inflexible and lacking in balance you
Running
It’s going to be a little while before I get a spring in my step (maybe Spring?), but I still really enjoy running in Spain - even when it’s hard work. Here’s a map of the 5k route from this morning.
Yoga
60 minutes of restorative yoga to complete the week. This is a practice I really enjoy and always come out of - as the name implies - feeling restored! Highly recommend. It’s a yin yoga session with some modifications and some traditional poses. It’s a Sunday staple after
Running
Chilly one this morning, but felt (marginally) better than Thursday and yesterday. Looking forward to seeing the fitness level beginning to increase and the heart rate dropping. This route a short, but reasonably hilly run (400ft over 5km), so it’s good for strengthening the quads and elevating the heart
Yoga
Gently back in to the yoga with 20 minutes of sun salutations. This photo was taken about an hour before I started and the sun had started to descend when I rolled out the mat. Feeling tired, stiff and generally awful. Much more yoga required.
Running
Same, 5k route. Going to stick with the slow running and short distances until I’m sure I’ve shaken off the Covid. I don’t remember feeling this unfit for a long time. High heart rate, short of breath, tired legs. Full house.
Running
After a calf injury followed by Covid, it's simply wonderful to be back in the trainers! I'll be taking it easy for the next few weeks.
