My A game. I know what it feels like and when I am bringing it, but just like a game it’s a combination of plays that get me there. It is so easy to fall off track and out of the zone over the holidays, this week I thought I’d share some of the tips I find most helpful in getting back on track in order to bring my A game year-round…
Focus – It literally means to find your center of attention. When I am busy, I always try to focus on what is most important to me in the moment. If I am spending time with my family, that is exactly where my focus should be. In class, I focus on getting the most possible out of the hour I have given myself by drawing my attention inward (especially during Savasana.) To nourish my body through the season’s activities, I focus on what will give me the most energy and keeps me feeling my best.
Forget All-or-Nothing – Imagine if the world’s top athletes said “Well, I didn’t do my best so I will just start again next year.” Not a chance. So why do we find ourselves with the all-or-nothing mentality this time of year? If I have a day where I’m not eating the way I intend, instead of saying to myself that I will start again Monday or in 2017, I always remind myself that NOW is the moment to do better, eat better and feel better. Didn’t make it to class today? Do not throw in the towel, luckily you have a whole schedule of classes to choose from tomorrow. (Or you can even stream a 30-minute Dailey Method class when you get home!) It’s okay to derail now and then, just be kind and allow yourself to get back on track.
Find Balance in Your Schedule – Like probably everyone else, I tend to overcommit during the holidays. With all the holiday parties, family events, kids’ activities, I am constantly running from one thing to the next. It’s okay to be selective in where you commit your time. Last week I gave you Tips on How to Stay in Shape When You Have No Time. If this includes prioritizing your schedule so that you are putting ME time or family time aside, it’s okay and can actually make you more effective. Remember – quality over quantity! Saying no isn’t always a bad thing.
Feed Your Mind With Positivity – Getting and staying in the zone is so much easier when you support yourself and your abilities. When I reinforce the things I’m doing well, I’m giving myself fuel for more good things to come. This includes not beating yourself up for things you wish you had done differently. Instead, use these as opportunities to grow, and move on. Replace your “I should” with “I will”.
Fun! – Your A game shines when you have fun. Be sure to enjoy what you are doing. When I want to adjust my eating habits, I don’t deprive, I explore! Try a healthy new soup recipe, stay in for date night for an interactive cooking session with someone you love, or take a trip to a new farmer’s market to see what you can find. In class, find Joy (our WOM) in your workout. You would be amazed at how much letting the fun in can keep you present and motivated and actually help you deepen your practice.
So be kind to yourself this season, keep consistent and allow room for small bumps along the way. It will help you to keep feeling amazing in 2017. In fact, maybe that’s why they call it your A game…
Bring it!
-Jill