If You’re going to complain….

I am not in a good place right now. You guys know what’s going on physically, and that’s leading to a not-so-good emotional and mental state. I read a few friends’ blog posts tonight that helped me to realize that even though things might not be good now, they will get better. It’s going to be a long road to healing, and an even longer road to get back to running. In the end, though, it’s all worth it because running makes me happy. It makes me feel like I am capable and strong. It allows me to set goals and achieve them. It gives me something to look forward to, and something that enriches my life in ways I could never imagine! So I’m trying to keep it positive. Everyday will be a challenge for me, so bear with me, please .

I’ve been complaining a lot lately. I don’t want to be the complainer that that just sits back and doesn’t at least try to help themself-that’s annoying. So trying to be the “not hypocritical” person that I strive to be, I thought I’d show you guys what I have been doing to help with my situation. Yes, not doing anything (as in resting) is what I really need right now. I’m not talking about anything crazy here, just things I can do mostly while not on my feet.

The most active thing I did today, besides going to a meeting this morning, to Dr. A’s, and to Walgreens, was do a few yoga poses that don’t involve hamstrings. I’ve figured out that if I go from child’s pose into plank, into a chaturanga with a few push-ups added, it doesn’t bother me! I don’t stay in plank long enough to really engage my hamstrings. I tried downward dog before I did child’s pose, and felt like it could end up being too much if I went to deeply into it. That’s why I switched it.

I also did some laying tricep extensions, some mini-bicep curls, and some arm raises (working deltoids) while laying in bed. A few sets of these everyday, and I may come out of this with arms like Coach Susan, Meeker or Karen! Wouldn’t that be awesome!!!!

Still haven’t gone to the pool yet. Not going to lie. I will get there. Baby steps. I’m probably going to end up getting doctor’s approval before starting to swim. I’m not messing around here, people, this has to heal for real.

You like my strategically censored photography skills?? So I’ve also been wrapping the little bastards with ACE bandages for a few hours at a time, and wearing compression socks to stimulate blood flow. You see, these tendons that are inflamed don’t get a lot of blood flow compared to muscle tissues. Blood flow helps with healing, and they can use all the help they can get! It may be a long shot with the socks, but at this point, I’ll try anything!

Then there’s the ice packs. I have been icing the areas for between 15-30 minutes around 3-4 times per day. This is pretty standard for hamstring tendinitis and for many other injuries. It seems counterintuitive to ice when you want to increase blood flow, right? That’s what I said. However, Dr. A says to only use ice because it helps with inflammation, which will also help with healing. So I listened. I know, there’s a first time for everything.

Last, but not least, I have been applying this a few times a day. My fellow Ragnar teammate and running friend Melissa from Trying to Heal recommended this because it helped her when she was injured last year. I already had some at home, so I said why not! It’s too soon to tell if it’s working, but it definitely doesn’t hurt to try. Thanks for the suggestion and words of encouragement, Melissa!

Always trying to eat my almond butter sandwiches and the bananas on top. Spoiled.

That’s why she’s spoiled. It’s so hard to say no to a face like that! Do you guys see what I’m up against? #pugmomproblems

Anyway, I think I’m going to order in my favorite wonton noodle soup from Beijing Beijing for dinner tonight. I don’t feel like standing and cooking or going anywhere to get anything.

Is anyone else excited for the season premier of So You Think You Can Dance tomorrow!!??? (Which from here on out will be referred to as SYTYCD. Please make a note of it, lol .) I AM!!!!! I know you are, Ari!!! You’re going to have to come over one of these nights for a viewing party!!

Ok, now I’m going to go. I’m hungry. Ya’ll have yourselves a good night and I’ll be on here a lot more in these coming weeks!

‘Til next time…

Happy Trails!

Stacey