Note
So, as I have had more time to train the way I love to (lots and in the heart of nature), I've also had time to reflect on why training, racing, and physical challenges have engaged me to this extent. Many people would be content to exercise for the purposes of a sound bill of health, but that hasn't been it for me.
It would be no surprise if the members of our niche community of orienteers felt the same way, but, after meditating on it, I've come up with two major drivers of my athletic career: the adventure and the state of oneness.
The adventure seems to be equal parts external, barreling down a hillside in search of a small marker, and internal, going to one of the most exclusive locations--my body's physical and mental limits.
The state of oneness is much calmer, and more difficult to reach. It's the flow that we often talk about in this sport; that time when all the gears are changing smoothly and our minds are fully present. Oftentimes, I get distracted with various thoughts when I'm orienteering, a song, what I should have said in that disagreement the other day, and so forth. But really fun orienteering is when you can flow.
It's easy to find adventure; I'm able to have an adventure everyday to a greater or lesser extent. But the oneness, that's the difficult one. That's the one that is seems elusive as Mew in Pokémon go. To that end, I've started trying to meditate daily to practice it in relaxed conditions. Time will tell where it takes me.
Running 30:00 [3] 7.0 km (4:17 / km) +100m 4:00 / km
Post-illness shake out. Legs were still a little achy from the fever. But tomorrow I'll be ready to conquer some hills.
Followed by 90 pushups, 5 minute plank, and 20xpedestal.