We all spend so much time taking care of others and although we work out like bandits, we forget to take time for ourselves. This past month, I feel like I’m developing a toolbox of self-care.
So what’s in the toolbox?
Massage Therapist
Although I’ve been going once a month, I probably should up the time. I typically go for 90 minutes and all of those sore muscles, feel so much better. I’ve been using Danielle Sullivan and she’s amazing! I really feel when you go hard, you should have a massage therapist in your toolbox. I also use a massage ball by MyoStorm and my massage chair when I’m not getting a message.
Chiropractor
Although I don’t see the chiropractor often, which is a good thing, at least I know I have one who is knowledgeable and available when I need him. I also love that he has a hyperbaric chamber which is so good for inflammation and recovery! I really like Dr. Jeff Poplarski in Amityville. He is a sponsor of the blog and team and, I find when I go to him for an injury, he knows how to solve my issues!
Nutritionist
It’s important to figure out what you are doing right and what you are not doing right. A nutritionist will help zone in on your foods for both activity and recovery. I was going to someone at Lifetime Fitness and was told that I wasn’t eating enough to sustain the activity. But, I couldn’t figure out why I wasn’t losing weight. The nutritionist said it also has to do with stress (which is at an all-time high) and sleep (which I don’t get much of). I was going once a week but cut that down. I may go back again.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is great for recovery or if you have an issue. They keep you in check. And, once you have those needles in you, you often go into a deep meditative state. It’s very relaxing and a good one will know what’s wrong with you by looking at your tongue.
Yoga
As triathletes and runners, we often overlook stretching and relaxation. I love Yoga with Adrienne on YouTube. It’s free. She’s a real person and she makes adaptations easy. So, if you can’t do the pose, she will help you find ways to adapt. I find her running, cycling, and swimming videos excellent. I also have used her yoga for sleep and it’s been terrific too.
Meditation
I recently downloaded Headspace and been finding that calming. Calm is another one out there and I’m sure there are others, especially free ones on YouTube.
Although I try to take care of myself, I feel that sometimes time is just limited, between working full time, teaching, podcasting, blogging, family time, and training, I sometimes let it all slip. But, this is important to keep yourself moving forward.
Psychotherapy
Talking to someone who is neutral is imperative. No matter if you are feeling anxious, depressed, or just in the training mode, it’s important to have a psychotherapist in your toolbox. If you pay someone, it’s all about you. It’s important to focus on yourself to make sure your body and mind are ready for racing.
Let me know if you have anything else to add to the toolbox.
