Week of rest
Even though I didn’t feel well, I still wanted to continue training, but my mom reminded me that I should be aware of burnout if I push myself too far. I contacted my psychiatrist and he said that I had good intentions, but he liked my mom’s proposal. He suggested that I take a week or two off for a complete break from cycling. It will do the body good and give it time to recover. Now I had enough time on my hands to take morning or afternoon naps. These were needed because I could feel my body was tired and it needed the rest. I did go to gym but only cycled at a low tempo and did some passive-aggressive exercises (circling movements to loosen the head, shoulders, chest, core, hips, upper legs and feet).It is now a week later, and I feel ten times better and ready to get on the bike again, but with one thought in mind: listen to your body! If I need to rest, I’ll rest and still enjoy it!
A little story: Over the weekend I had to house sit for client who is also a dear friend of my mother’s. Usually she would give my mom all the detail of how to take care of the dogs, but when I got there, I didn’t know any of these things. They have two Jack Russells. One of them was friendly and cooperated by taking her medication, but the other one wouldn’t let me closer than ten feet from her! I wondered how I would take care of this dog if she wouldn’t allow me near her. It made me think of how many people have problems, and they know they do, yet don’t allow anyone near them to help. We help ourselves if we choose to let somebody else help us.
Deon Labuschagne
