“It's a funny thing about life, once you begin to take note of the things you are grateful for, you begin to lose site of the things that you lack."

- Germany Kent

My husband, Eric serves in the U.S. Coast Guard, so I’m on the USO’s mailing list. They often send ideas of fun things to do with kids. Last month it was an “I Spy” Halloween picture find. This month it’s a “Give Thanks” bingo card to complete throughout the Fall. The game suggests your standard activities like drink hot chocolate, watch the Macy’s Day Parade and donate toys or clothes. As a chocoholic who loves larger than life floats and has far more clothing than any one human needs, I can get onboard with all this.

Though some things caught my eye on the bingo board that I had to pause for: Go for a walk, jump in the fall leaves, help with household chores, and go apple picking. I guess I just never realized that I should be thankful for the ability to do all of these things. Walk, jump, carry out the trash, climb an apple tree…

When I consider how recovering from surgery, nursing sprained ankles and a thrown out back limited my mobility this year, actually being able to bounce around this holiday season like Tigger sounds pretty good! We may not be winning gold in the Olympics, but there’s no reason we can’t aim to be in the top 10 of our age bracket in our local Turkey Trot. Let’s be thankful we can run at all!

In completing your bingo board or 5k training you might find yourself with sore muscles. They’re inevitable when you’re active. Try to think of them as a bonus for moving closer to your fitness goals. You’re feeling the micro-tears your sweat session caused in your muscles — which, as they heal, makes you stronger. Still, the actual experience of achy muscles isn’t fun. 

Here are 5 Remedies for Soreness:

1. Walk 🚶‍♀️

Keep the blood flowing, this reduces inflammation. A gentle yoga flow session can also help.

2. Heat 🔥

A warm shower or heating pad followed by a muscle balm will do wonders! And don’t forget about the reliable ol’ Epsom salt bath. Be sure to soak for 20 minutes.

3. Sleep 😴

7.5 hours minimum!

4. Massage 💆‍♂️

A pro is best, but a foam roller or a myofascial release ball can do the trick.

5. Hang Upside Down 🙃

Try a suspension hammock for 3–5 minutes, rest a minute to re-calibrate, and then repeat. This tractions the joints in your spine, increases blood flow and allows a few minutes of gravity-free living on your bones, muscles and joints.

Don’t be afraid to get moving this season! Focus on, and appreciate all of the amazing ventures your body is capable of. Enjoy filling up this Bingo board… go on, jump in that leaf pile!

Happy Autumn,
Coach Amanda