Stop And Smell The Flowers

Life is busy... really busy! Sometimes we get so caught up in our to-do list, work, family, training, etc..., that we forget to stop and smell the flowers. Flowers that bring beauty to our environment and flowers that bring beauty into our lives. It only takes a few moments to stop and realize the artistry among us, in nature and in people. This was my 'A-ha' moment running yesterday.

I woke up early with big plans to take a long run up and around Kennesaw Mountain. As I stepped out of bed and walked towards the kitchen, I knew my body was feeling something different. It was tired and wanted the warmth and coziness of my bed. I literally stood in the hallway 5 minutes feeling the pull of my bed vs. coffee in the kitchen. Aggggg.... go run.... you have to get it done... you'll feel better... you'll enjoy it once you get going... do it! Coffee, bagel, and out the door I go.

Halfway through the run my knee begins to aggravate me and my legs turned to lead. What am I going to do? I'm out on the trail and many miles from my car, not feeling this run at all! I decided to take it easy and surrender my run to enjoying the beauty among me... nature's umbrella sheltered me from the rain, fields of daisies, wild flowers in shades of purple, white, and yellow, the whoo-ing sounds of owls, birds singing, dark green ferns, and drops of rain rolling off oak leaves. I ran, I walked, I stood amongst the forest, I smelled flowers, I took pictures, I inhaled the fresh air, I smiled.

Taking time to enjoy nature all around me was like accepting a gift wrapped with a big, gorgeous bow. There are so many sweet surprises all around that can be missed if moments are not taken to catch them. Work hard, train hard, play hard... but don't forget to stop and smell the flowers.

Rock These 3

Doing these 3 simple moves 3 times a week can help you lose your weak. Start easy and build your way up to a better, stronger you!

1. Push-ups - all hale to the mighty push-up! Love, love, love them! They not only help build upper body strength and endurance, but build the core too. There are many variations on the pushup that can hit different parts of the upper body. Get going on these, even if you start with the modified push-up, and make sure to add variety. My favorite... the narrow grip push-up.

2. Planks - plank it out! Like the push-up, there are many variations of the plank that can be used to work specific parts of the core. I like the plank because it works the full core (shoulders through hips) and then some. Building a strong core is key to functional movement and sport specific movements.

3. Squats - get low! Proper form is necessary when performing squats, once you've mastered your form then get your hips back and low! You will be working your quads, glutes, hips, and hamstrings... lots of leg work in one single motion. Many variations on the squat too.