Hi from Miami! I’m back in the swing of things and feeling very grateful for this past week. This was my last spring break, and unlike the majority of the college population, I didn’t go to Mexico and get drunk. It was simple, restful and marvelous. Oddly it was pretty eye-opening as well. A few of my realizations…
Not running for a week won’t kill me. I didn’t do any cardio for 9 days and while I did workout, part of me was paranoid that I would a) gain 10 pounds…not that that’s a bad thing, b) never want to run again, or c) lose all of my fitness. Wrong, wrong and wrong. Taking just those few days off revived my love of running AND allowed me to focus on other forms of exercise that I enjoy as well, like strength training. I *hope* I can continue lifting at least twice a week because I’m already seeing progress and, more importantly, feeling strong.
More on this tomorrow!
Sometimes you need a little more food. While I can’t remember when I last stepped on a scale, I can tell I gained some weight. Guess what? I’m happy about that. I know, how often do you hear people say they’re happy about gaining weight? Before break, even though I might not have noticed it, I was exhausted and weak. I needed rest and more nutrients so I made it my mission to take advantage of a full refrigerator, hearty meals and leftovers. What a difference proper nutrition makes. Seriously, healthy fats and carbs are good for your soul (at least I think so).
I may not have a Starbucks habit, but my “speciality drink” obsession has gone to a new level. I can’t say I’m mad. I tried, and loved, Bai and a new-to-me brand of kombucha, Kevita.
You can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and Easter in one night…before either holiday happens. Saturday night my mom realized that we wouldn’t be together as a family for St. Patrick’s Day and Easter so we had a mini-celebration of both holidays. We wore green necklaces and hats at dinner and then painted Easter eggs after.
You don’t have to talk every day to remain close friends. My best friend was in town for a few nights so we met for dinner. Over two hours and many stories later, I felt like we’d never spent time apart. We text regularly but nothing will compare to catching up in person. She’s pretty special.
I may never want to leave home, but the transition gets a little easier every time. When I used to visit home during my freshman year, going back to school felt impossible. It was almost easier not to go home so I wouldn’t have to make the transition back. Now, while it may not be fun, I see the bigger picture. In just 7 weeks and I’ll be back again so it’s time to finish out the semester on a high note.
From my Instagram
I was worried too that taking time off of running was going to hurt all the fitness that I had built up, but after going for a run last night and feeling really good about it, I know that that week off was just what my body needed before starting a new training cycle!
Brie @ Lean, Clean, & Brie recently posted…Back to the Beach Half Marathon Training Plan
I think time off here and there is extremely beneficial. We just need it to mentally and physically recharge.
Reading this made me so so happy. It’s so great that you finally are able to go back to school without dreading it as much (you know I’ve been there), and that you now feel rested, took time off running, caught up with family and friends, and are feeling at peace with yourself. In my mind, that is exactly what spring break is for. Your family is so cute with your St.Patrick’s Day/Easter celebration! Love that :)
Have a great week back at school– or at least make the best of it!
Sarah @pickyrunner recently posted…3/8-3/14
Writing this actually made me happy too…just to see how far I’ve come! I remember reading your posts from a few years ago and I feel like we are the same person (but I’m 2 years behind haha).
(Those pink sock/foot things….I am in love, hahahahahaha!)
I’d much rather always always always spend spring break relaxing doing what I want. No crazy parties or “college kid” stuff. That’s not fun to me at all.
I keep telling myself, I only have to get through one more month now….I can do it….maybe ;)
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine recently posted…Fruity Cauliflower Rice
Yes, you CAN!!!! So close to summer :)
I love Bai, too! I try not to make it a habit, since it’s expensive, but it’s so good!
My school is on quarters, so our breaks are different from most other schools’. My break starts after my finals on Wednesday and I am soooo excited. Ready for some relaxation, lots of good food, and time with my family.
I’m glad to know coming back to school gets easier. I’ve also found it can be kinda rough. Have a great first week back :)
Ellen @ My Uncommon Everyday recently posted…Sweet Surprises
Yes, going back to school after a break does get easier (I NEVER thought it would a few years ago). The first day is a little hard but I get back into the swing of things much quicker now. I hope you have an awesome break! :)
So fun that you guys celebrated both holidays! I am so happy to hear you took time off running and found it can do good for the soul! So many people think a week will ruin everything, but your body needs that every once in a while. It truly is a great thing to take a step back, and eat more! It’s hard, but totally worth it. I am with you on school. It was hard going back to school every time I was home. Then I moved home and life was good again haha ;)
Heather @Fit n Cookies recently posted…A new nephew, a baby shower, and an all around great weekend!
Haha that is my plan after graduation ;) A few years ago I had a really hard time taking a break from exercise and was convinced I would have to start from the beginning again. But, you’re right, a break re-energizes you (mentally and physically) and it’s just what we need sometimes.
Two holidays at once = GENIUS. Yes, we can!
It’s always so very nice to have time to just think about your life and how it’s going. Sometimes weekends just aren’t enough, so I’m so happy that you had time to *realize* a few things!
Tiffany @ The Chi-Athlete recently posted…Weekend Snapshots: One Sentence Per Picture Time!
Right?! It’s double the celebrations because I still will celebrate on the actual holiday :) I’m really thankful for a week of relaxing and reflection. I think we all need that once in a while.
In college I never did anything for spring break lol! I always went home and spent time with my family which is what I wanted to do! And regarding the no running, I always feel like that, too! Despite knowing it’s incorrect. Something I need to work on :) I’m glad you enjoyed your break!! Such a crazy feeling having your “last” spring break!
Going home was exactly what I wanted to do. Especially because my home is in a warm climate so it’s the best of both worlds :) I’m in denial that it was my last spring break. I’m a junior but graduating early so next year is the “real world.” Yikes!
Aw, I love that you colored Easter eggs! Haha. Emily, you have such a healthy mindset that I admire! You definitely don’t look like you’re up a few lbs (you’re tiny!), but I love your attitude toward recovering, resting, and doing what’s best for your body, and your soul.
So glad that you had a good break at home .. I’m looking forward to my next trip home, for sure. <3
Emily @ Sweets and Beets recently posted…Thinking Out Loud~
You’re the best! It’s not anything that anyone else would notice but I needed the little extra nutrition.