Along Sydney's amazing coastal path, a hot sunny stretch of stunning views 25k run... A perfect end to a remarkable year of running ~ fitness, luvs & strength for 2014 xox
My ULTRA MARATHON run training, health & fitness diary to inspire & exude amazing energy. Sharing my creative adventures in veganism to power me through the distances. & quoting my spiritual enlightenments along the journey...... With my musings & motivation thrown in the healthy trail mix. Gotta keep righteously running like the wind to be free!!! XOX
Tuesday, 31 December 2013
Monday, 30 December 2013
2013 reflections/2014 motivations
Wowee what a wonderful year 2013 has been. In terms of my ultra marathoning & training & running around & bloomin blogging about it, it's been a beautiful big industrious year indeed. This year I have 13 elations...
1) Finished the Northface 100k
2) Smashed my marathon PB to 3hr53mins
3) Ran a 50k in 5 hours pretty much
4) Hit the trails, started new running adventures
5) Ran to & from work every week - primal transport prevails
6) Powered myself by eating billions of bliss balls & vegan treats
7) Written 116 posts on 'pinklassrunning' blog
8) Ran the razorback trail run 64k
9) & Duncan's run 50k my first podium finish ~ 3rd female
10)Have a new running pal - little runner
11)Enhanced my being with yoga & meditation
12)Travelled to beautiful Bali's desa seni for a week yoga retreat
13)I have raised the bar on my fitness levels
So what will 2014 bring? More motivating & more miles? What challenges am I setting & going to go about getting? 14 affirmations...
1) The big red run in July - amazing goal 250k's stage race
2) 3 marathons in 3 days up in Cairns
3) More fun runs with little runner
4) Vegan living & conscious eating continues
5) The mount baw baw trail marathon
6) The pink runner to run across the Golden Gate Bridge
7) To get another PB in another distance
8) To practise more yoga (& breathe...)
9) Have a week in a retreat somewhere sunny =)
10)Keep running to work with good energy
11)I'd like to lose 5 kilos!!! wishful thinking??
12)& to welcome & embrace new challenges experiences
13)To continue to push myself out of my comfort zone
14)I hope 2014 brings us all peace luv & happiness.....
Hoping you will join me in a peaceful positive year of health infused running adventures. Pinky xox
1) Finished the Northface 100k
2) Smashed my marathon PB to 3hr53mins
3) Ran a 50k in 5 hours pretty much
4) Hit the trails, started new running adventures
5) Ran to & from work every week - primal transport prevails
6) Powered myself by eating billions of bliss balls & vegan treats
7) Written 116 posts on 'pinklassrunning' blog
8) Ran the razorback trail run 64k
9) & Duncan's run 50k my first podium finish ~ 3rd female
10)Have a new running pal - little runner
11)Enhanced my being with yoga & meditation
12)Travelled to beautiful Bali's desa seni for a week yoga retreat
13)I have raised the bar on my fitness levels
So what will 2014 bring? More motivating & more miles? What challenges am I setting & going to go about getting? 14 affirmations...
1) The big red run in July - amazing goal 250k's stage race
2) 3 marathons in 3 days up in Cairns
3) More fun runs with little runner
4) Vegan living & conscious eating continues
5) The mount baw baw trail marathon
6) The pink runner to run across the Golden Gate Bridge
7) To get another PB in another distance
8) To practise more yoga (& breathe...)
9) Have a week in a retreat somewhere sunny =)
10)Keep running to work with good energy
11)I'd like to lose 5 kilos!!! wishful thinking??
12)& to welcome & embrace new challenges experiences
13)To continue to push myself out of my comfort zone
14)I hope 2014 brings us all peace luv & happiness.....
Hoping you will join me in a peaceful positive year of health infused running adventures. Pinky xox
Sunday, 29 December 2013
Saturday, 28 December 2013
Pink runner vs blue mountains
My pink runner vs blue mountains Christmas time adventure saw me sweat out the 'too many bottles of festive cheer' & run off all the nut roast. I hope you all had much merriness this Christmas too. & I would also like to add I am the undisputed twice champion of our creative Christmas sporting event. A sport that has left me battered and bruised such was the competitive contact sport that is musical chairs!!!
So today, to get away from the temptations of more pink bottles of bubbles & hedonistic headaches I came up to the blue mountains, the scene of my first traumatic ton kilometre kicking! I decided to run the 'six foot track' deceptively longer than 6ft! A 43k trail in fact. & I planned to run out for 3 hours & run back to give me a 6 hour training run in the sun.
I set off this morning at 9am a couple of k's along the highway to the 'explorers rest' - the starting point for the track. The sun was just starting to heat up in the sky but the forest was wide awake with buzzing & chirping. & I was feeling buzzy & chirpy as I spritely & lightly danced down into the bush. Noting the downward descent as I went & thinking of how it would feel several hours later on my return ascent. The track evened out to a flat/easy underfoot trail as the forest turned into countryside I must have been meditative when I missed the turn off (massive sign meh) & ran on for another 3k but ended up on a road. Missing the massive sign again meh! I ended up running up to a property, much navigation practice needed. But on the way back down from my wrong turn I was bouncing down a grassy trail, until....
I had my first trail running encounter....
With a big black snake!!!!
I have never ran so fast! But I did turn to witness the beauty of the beast. I did get my iPhone out to capture the critter but a little camera shy, he slithered off. I am a little obsessed with serpents, I once had a beautiful pair of pink snakeskin stilettos! But to meet such a sensual creature was sensational & to have survived to tell the tale. Note to self, carry a compression bandage for snake bite treatment!
I also met some dashing men on the trail, with diminutive details exchanged we ran on but I daydreamed of dalliances as I danced on into another forest. This trail was around 3 hours into the run, the sun high & rays beaming hot heat, I was feeling good, hot but good & another half hour in, was a cool still river, with pools of water perfect for my half way point & for chilling my body. It was divine.
So I started my return leg, a little concerned with my lack of fluids left but still with energy in my tank. The sun started to drain that quite quickly & my thirst thickened. With 2 hours left to go my last drop of endura was drank. But I still had my yummy raw power bars left so I powered up. But then my hydration pack dried out too. I had been on the run for 5 hours! The sun was scorching & I was parched. I reached the first forest again which was welcome respite, cooler & darker.
But it was also the steep step scenario. I struggled. Stopping to stop my legs from burning
& my tummy from turning. I made it to the top after an hour of such slow go. I was a mess! & in a dehydration stress. Lessons learned.
Once the run is finished though it's easy to harmonise the hell! & As I jogged (slowly) into the town all was forgotten & I felt fabulous. The fruit & water that I found in the fruit warehouse heaven was my medicine. I made it back to the hotel at 4pm. Phew.
WOW what a day. Pink runner won. Blue mountains put up a beautiful fight. & good night xox
So today, to get away from the temptations of more pink bottles of bubbles & hedonistic headaches I came up to the blue mountains, the scene of my first traumatic ton kilometre kicking! I decided to run the 'six foot track' deceptively longer than 6ft! A 43k trail in fact. & I planned to run out for 3 hours & run back to give me a 6 hour training run in the sun.
I set off this morning at 9am a couple of k's along the highway to the 'explorers rest' - the starting point for the track. The sun was just starting to heat up in the sky but the forest was wide awake with buzzing & chirping. & I was feeling buzzy & chirpy as I spritely & lightly danced down into the bush. Noting the downward descent as I went & thinking of how it would feel several hours later on my return ascent. The track evened out to a flat/easy underfoot trail as the forest turned into countryside I must have been meditative when I missed the turn off (massive sign meh) & ran on for another 3k but ended up on a road. Missing the massive sign again meh! I ended up running up to a property, much navigation practice needed. But on the way back down from my wrong turn I was bouncing down a grassy trail, until....
I had my first trail running encounter....
With a big black snake!!!!
I have never ran so fast! But I did turn to witness the beauty of the beast. I did get my iPhone out to capture the critter but a little camera shy, he slithered off. I am a little obsessed with serpents, I once had a beautiful pair of pink snakeskin stilettos! But to meet such a sensual creature was sensational & to have survived to tell the tale. Note to self, carry a compression bandage for snake bite treatment!
I also met some dashing men on the trail, with diminutive details exchanged we ran on but I daydreamed of dalliances as I danced on into another forest. This trail was around 3 hours into the run, the sun high & rays beaming hot heat, I was feeling good, hot but good & another half hour in, was a cool still river, with pools of water perfect for my half way point & for chilling my body. It was divine.
So I started my return leg, a little concerned with my lack of fluids left but still with energy in my tank. The sun started to drain that quite quickly & my thirst thickened. With 2 hours left to go my last drop of endura was drank. But I still had my yummy raw power bars left so I powered up. But then my hydration pack dried out too. I had been on the run for 5 hours! The sun was scorching & I was parched. I reached the first forest again which was welcome respite, cooler & darker.
But it was also the steep step scenario. I struggled. Stopping to stop my legs from burning
& my tummy from turning. I made it to the top after an hour of such slow go. I was a mess! & in a dehydration stress. Lessons learned.
Once the run is finished though it's easy to harmonise the hell! & As I jogged (slowly) into the town all was forgotten & I felt fabulous. The fruit & water that I found in the fruit warehouse heaven was my medicine. I made it back to the hotel at 4pm. Phew.
WOW what a day. Pink runner won. Blue mountains put up a beautiful fight. & good night xox
Monday, 23 December 2013
Sunday, 22 December 2013
Duncan's run review
It was a mild morning as the ultra runners assembled to run an inspired event named Duncan's run, sentimentally named in memory of a guy called Duncan who sadly passed away this last year & had been an avid ultra marathoner & sportsman & family man, his wife Anna had organised the run following his favourite trails in & around the Strzelecki track in Gippsland, Victoria. Thank you & bless you Anna.
& what a beautiful national park it was indeed. I had only decided to do this on Tuesday! What an inspired Tuesday! I opted for the 50k (100k next year!)
We set off at 6am through a lush leafy rainforest on an inviting undulating path & as the day warmed up so did my legs, awakening to the sounds of nature so much better in reality than on my I-phone!!
The terrain changed up to the rockiest of roads, a technical track that took intense concentration to navigate & not break my ankle! When we got to around 11k we went completely off track following orange ribbons tied to trees up a tough little ascent. I was drenched with sweat as it was hard work & humid so I made sure I was taking on lots of water with endura for hydration with electrolytes. & my bag packed with amazeballs & running fuels in different formats.
From when we reached the top of the challenging chase it was a gradual descent on sultry soft trails that took us to an open area. Stunning views surrounded the runners but we only had seconds to take it in as our eyes were back on the task of trail running.
I jumped through a small river so took on the next hill with soggy squelchy feet, a 5k gradual incline, I power walked with interval jogging I felt pretty strong, taking out 6 men on the uphill stretch (go pink lass runner) & the next 10k (from 30k to 40k) was a downhill grassy track, it was heaven like floating on velvet, running free through this amazing landscape & that 10k took less than an hour, my fastest k - 5.29! Feeling fine.
With ambitions of a fast finish, I started up the next climb. The next climb got steeper & went on forever! & ever! After 5k's of steepness & dizziness & deliriousness I was shaken but stirred myself for a gentle finish on weak knees. & when I reached the finish as the rain sheets dampened the air I was delighted to discover I had got 3rd female!! My first ever podium finish (my last podium experience falling off whilst rave dancing in Ibiza 1994) so proud. & pulling up well today, maybes eating too much, but hey it's Christmas! & I'm going to give my legs an Xmas break too (for a day or 2 anyway) hot yoga beckons though & that'll feel gooooood!
It was such a wonderful run, thanks to all the volunteers & supporters & organisers of a wonderful experience. & well done to all the runners ;) xox
& what a beautiful national park it was indeed. I had only decided to do this on Tuesday! What an inspired Tuesday! I opted for the 50k (100k next year!)
We set off at 6am through a lush leafy rainforest on an inviting undulating path & as the day warmed up so did my legs, awakening to the sounds of nature so much better in reality than on my I-phone!!
The terrain changed up to the rockiest of roads, a technical track that took intense concentration to navigate & not break my ankle! When we got to around 11k we went completely off track following orange ribbons tied to trees up a tough little ascent. I was drenched with sweat as it was hard work & humid so I made sure I was taking on lots of water with endura for hydration with electrolytes. & my bag packed with amazeballs & running fuels in different formats.
From when we reached the top of the challenging chase it was a gradual descent on sultry soft trails that took us to an open area. Stunning views surrounded the runners but we only had seconds to take it in as our eyes were back on the task of trail running.
I jumped through a small river so took on the next hill with soggy squelchy feet, a 5k gradual incline, I power walked with interval jogging I felt pretty strong, taking out 6 men on the uphill stretch (go pink lass runner) & the next 10k (from 30k to 40k) was a downhill grassy track, it was heaven like floating on velvet, running free through this amazing landscape & that 10k took less than an hour, my fastest k - 5.29! Feeling fine.
With ambitions of a fast finish, I started up the next climb. The next climb got steeper & went on forever! & ever! After 5k's of steepness & dizziness & deliriousness I was shaken but stirred myself for a gentle finish on weak knees. & when I reached the finish as the rain sheets dampened the air I was delighted to discover I had got 3rd female!! My first ever podium finish (my last podium experience falling off whilst rave dancing in Ibiza 1994) so proud. & pulling up well today, maybes eating too much, but hey it's Christmas! & I'm going to give my legs an Xmas break too (for a day or 2 anyway) hot yoga beckons though & that'll feel gooooood!
It was such a wonderful run, thanks to all the volunteers & supporters & organisers of a wonderful experience. & well done to all the runners ;) xox
Saturday, 21 December 2013
Wednesday, 18 December 2013
Kale & quinoa groove
A super foods spectacular served... & it's my own quick salad recipe I spontaneously made up tonight & surprisingly really really really liked so thought you might quite like too. I've been letting go & having lots of bread & gnocchi & carb loaded food of late, so wanted to get a healthy yet hearty (good for the heart, body & soul) meal in before the silly season surfs in on it's wine fuelled wave!!!
Perfect after my Hatha groove yoga class, practice with a dj playing tunes, finding your creative rhythm within a sun salutation & meditating to music in shiv asana generating a blissful state & a smiley face. & a healthy appetite...
PINKY'S XMAS SURPRISE ~
shredded kale
1 cup quinoa
1 lemon juiced
1/2" ginger juiced
I can lentils washed & drained
pomegranate seeds
cucumber diced
10 cherry tomatoes
sea salt
olive oil
cayenne pepper
Mix all the super ingredients together & serve chilled & enjoy the health fest, beyond deliciousness. & HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
Perfect after my Hatha groove yoga class, practice with a dj playing tunes, finding your creative rhythm within a sun salutation & meditating to music in shiv asana generating a blissful state & a smiley face. & a healthy appetite...
PINKY'S XMAS SURPRISE ~
shredded kale
1 cup quinoa
1 lemon juiced
1/2" ginger juiced
I can lentils washed & drained
pomegranate seeds
cucumber diced
10 cherry tomatoes
sea salt
olive oil
cayenne pepper
Mix all the super ingredients together & serve chilled & enjoy the health fest, beyond deliciousness. & HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
perfect way to start the day...
** a floaty run
** a strengthening pilates reformer class
** a yummy bowl of macadamia muesli with almond milk
** a dreamy cup of yogi detox tea
** a refreshing chunk of watermelon
** a relaxing morning at work reading new russh magazine...
** a strengthening pilates reformer class
** a yummy bowl of macadamia muesli with almond milk
** a dreamy cup of yogi detox tea
** a refreshing chunk of watermelon
** a relaxing morning at work reading new russh magazine...
Monday, 16 December 2013
pilates performance
I read an interesting article about pilates & how it affects athletic performance today, as I have been practicing on the pilates reformer bed for a while now I do feel that as well as my core strengthening there are many other benefits, my muscles feel more supple, my knees are benefitting from the alignments & here's what else is going on in Pinky's physiology!!
Centering -- Bringing the focus to the center of your body, which can teach you how to use your core muscles to generate athletic or forceful movements.
Concentration -- Bringing full attention to each exercise and learning how to engage in high-quality focus.
Control -- Performing a movement with control and fluidity, which can teach you how to move more gracefully.
Precision -- Having self-awareness of your body's tiny movements and knowing the alignment of one body part relative to other body parts and how your body is moving through space -- which can help with athleticism.
Breath -- Using a very full breath in your exercises and thinking of your lungs as a bellows which strongly pump air fully in and out of your body, which you can use in other activities such as stress relief or sports.
Flow -- Performing your movements in a flowing, graceful manner, which can help you become a better dancer or athlete, or even simply improve your everyday posture.
Sounds good doesn't it, I'll have some of that please & I'm booked in for another session in the morning =) a graceful day to you xox
Sunday, 15 December 2013
Fairy tales of trails
This hazily sunny weekend I went heavenly trail running down in the Mornington peninsula, in fact I followed the track for the 'two bays trail run' event that I'm participating in the 56k next month, now I can't wait to do the run. Yesterday having ran a respectable 36k, that's pretty perfect training for the race & gives me confidence in knowing the course. With a couple of killer hills, the rest of the course is undulating single track through magical forests & countryside roads, the elevation gives you some stunning views of the peninsula & running down to the glistening turquoise ocean & breathing that sea air deep into your lungs will be exhilarating on the day as it was yesterday.
& for a wonderful wind down this morning we coasted along the breezeless beach for another 12k just to blow the bottle of bollinger cobwebs away... Feeling sanguine.
& I got home this afternoon, a little sun kissed & very thirsty after all the exertion I made up some freshly cold pressed apples & lemon mixed with some chilled sparkling water & threw in some raspberries & ice. Nice.
Then made up some muesli with oats, almonds, macadamia nuts, sultanas, dates, cinnamon & maple syrup. Mixed it up & toasted. Now I'm luvingly lapping up with lashings of almond milk xox
& for a wonderful wind down this morning we coasted along the breezeless beach for another 12k just to blow the bottle of bollinger cobwebs away... Feeling sanguine.
& I got home this afternoon, a little sun kissed & very thirsty after all the exertion I made up some freshly cold pressed apples & lemon mixed with some chilled sparkling water & threw in some raspberries & ice. Nice.
Then made up some muesli with oats, almonds, macadamia nuts, sultanas, dates, cinnamon & maple syrup. Mixed it up & toasted. Now I'm luvingly lapping up with lashings of almond milk xox
Thursday, 12 December 2013
power stair morning
This morning was a beautiful sunny morning in my home city & I had a summery spring in my step. I was on my usual route running to work, passing Melbourne's famous MCG stadium, when I remembered a 'stair master sets routine' I had saved in my phone so with my energy effervescing I decided to smash the steps... It only took 10 minutes out of my life & although I found the difficulty level pretty high (like the stadium steps) & only completed 2 repeats, this is SO going to happen again & again for stronger stair super powers!!!
Try it for yourself...
*THE STAIR MASTER*
SET 1 ~ RUN EVERY STEP
SET 2 ~ RUN EVERY OTHER STEP
SET 3 ~ SQUAT JUMP EVERY STEP
SET 4 ~ SQUAT JUMP EVERY OTHER STEP
SET 5 ~ HOP EVERY STEP (RIGHT FOOT)
SET 6 ~ HOP EVERY STEP (LEFT FOOT)
& REPEAT X3 - ouch!!!
Try it for yourself...
*THE STAIR MASTER*
SET 1 ~ RUN EVERY STEP
SET 2 ~ RUN EVERY OTHER STEP
SET 3 ~ SQUAT JUMP EVERY STEP
SET 4 ~ SQUAT JUMP EVERY OTHER STEP
SET 5 ~ HOP EVERY STEP (RIGHT FOOT)
SET 6 ~ HOP EVERY STEP (LEFT FOOT)
& REPEAT X3 - ouch!!!
Monday, 9 December 2013
Sunday, 8 December 2013
Perfect playlist
My music motivations. Tracks that make me wanna dance around the track. So in no particular order.....
Queen - Don't stop me now
Yazz - The only way is up
Daft punk - Get lucky
Rudimental - Feel the love
The Rolling Stones - Under my thumb
Chase & status - Running
Blondie - Heart of glass
D'lacey - Hideaway
Franz Ferdinand - No you girls
Queen of Japan - I was made for loving you
Robert Miles - Children
The Killers - Glamourous indie rock & roll
David Bowie - Heroes
The Stone Roses - I am the resurrection
Kings of Tomorrow - Finally
The Chemical Brothers - Hey boy hey girl
Nneka - Heartbeat (chase & status mix)
K-klass - Rhythm is a mystery
LCD Soundsystem - All my friends
Skream - In for the kill (feat. la roux)
Frankie Knuckles - Your love
Doves - Pounding
Pink Floyd - Shine on you crazy diamond
Disclosure - White noise
Marlena Shaw - California soul
Groove Armada - Superstylin'
Donna Summer - I feel love
The Prodigy - Breathe
Take That - Rule the world
Joy division - Love will tear us apart
Marvin Gaye - Got to give it up
Goldfrapp - Strict machine
East Side Beat - Ride like the wind
Just a few of my faves that keep me going for a marathon, rave on runners ;)
Queen - Don't stop me now
Yazz - The only way is up
Daft punk - Get lucky
Rudimental - Feel the love
The Rolling Stones - Under my thumb
Chase & status - Running
Blondie - Heart of glass
D'lacey - Hideaway
Franz Ferdinand - No you girls
Queen of Japan - I was made for loving you
Robert Miles - Children
The Killers - Glamourous indie rock & roll
David Bowie - Heroes
The Stone Roses - I am the resurrection
Kings of Tomorrow - Finally
The Chemical Brothers - Hey boy hey girl
Nneka - Heartbeat (chase & status mix)
K-klass - Rhythm is a mystery
LCD Soundsystem - All my friends
Skream - In for the kill (feat. la roux)
Frankie Knuckles - Your love
Doves - Pounding
Pink Floyd - Shine on you crazy diamond
Disclosure - White noise
Marlena Shaw - California soul
Groove Armada - Superstylin'
Donna Summer - I feel love
The Prodigy - Breathe
Take That - Rule the world
Joy division - Love will tear us apart
Marvin Gaye - Got to give it up
Goldfrapp - Strict machine
East Side Beat - Ride like the wind
Just a few of my faves that keep me going for a marathon, rave on runners ;)
Saturday, 7 December 2013
Got me thinking.....
I read this today on an Instagram post of all places but it captivated me momentarily & it stirred some emotion in me, inspired me to think about self preservation situations & provoked thoughts pertaining to my circle of life.
This diminutive data prompts us to observe, trust & act upon your senses, our instinct & to ultimately 'live YOUR life' an idiom I admire & always adhere to, I added in the 'long run' part because it so fits & personalises the passage for me. & I share with you.
"The world is full of people who want to control you. They want to tell you how to live, where to go, what to think, and ultimately what is right and wrong. So, how do we find our way amid mixed messages & endless possibilities?
There is within each one of us, an inner compass. It's easy to follow.. But you have to slow down & check inside of yourself. Follow your inner compass. If you're feeling lost or confused, ask yourself, how does it make me feel? Contractive? Insecure? Expansive? Joyful? Are you afraid? Or is it excitement? You know.. You know!! & you are the only one who knows what is right for you.
Take a little time each day to tune into that infinite, all knowing centre that is YOU. A walk in nature, yoga, meditation, A LONG RUN... In your own way find your centre, then watch your life blossom & miracles unfold."
I had to spread this beautiful secret, the love & positive energy, paying the joy forward.
& good luck to all the runners in the sussan women's fun run tomorrow. To all the fighters. To all the lovers. To all the survivors. Bring on the pink!!!
This diminutive data prompts us to observe, trust & act upon your senses, our instinct & to ultimately 'live YOUR life' an idiom I admire & always adhere to, I added in the 'long run' part because it so fits & personalises the passage for me. & I share with you.
"The world is full of people who want to control you. They want to tell you how to live, where to go, what to think, and ultimately what is right and wrong. So, how do we find our way amid mixed messages & endless possibilities?
There is within each one of us, an inner compass. It's easy to follow.. But you have to slow down & check inside of yourself. Follow your inner compass. If you're feeling lost or confused, ask yourself, how does it make me feel? Contractive? Insecure? Expansive? Joyful? Are you afraid? Or is it excitement? You know.. You know!! & you are the only one who knows what is right for you.
Take a little time each day to tune into that infinite, all knowing centre that is YOU. A walk in nature, yoga, meditation, A LONG RUN... In your own way find your centre, then watch your life blossom & miracles unfold."
I had to spread this beautiful secret, the love & positive energy, paying the joy forward.
& good luck to all the runners in the sussan women's fun run tomorrow. To all the fighters. To all the lovers. To all the survivors. Bring on the pink!!!
Thursday, 5 December 2013
Pink crumblin'
- Meh. Sickness. I am a bad patient. I HATE being stuck indoors, stomach pains, dizzy head, feeling sorry for self & sleeping. Sleeping is actually the best bit, those transcending afternoon sofa snoozes. But I am seeing the gastro light. & craving fruit crumble. So I made this healthy version for my sensitive tummy, it made me feel a wee bit better, made me go yummm & smile for the first time in days so I had to share the luv...
- Pink crumblin' recipe -
- 2 pink lady apples
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup raspberries
- 2 dessert spoons agave
- 2 cups oats
- 1 cup crushed almonds
- Layer the fruit in a deep oven dish, then pour over the agave & then the crumble mix of the oats & almonds. Bake in the oven for 20/25mins...
- Will be extra yum with some coyo coconut natural yogurt when I'm feeling fully better!! But for now it's about simple pleasures & recovery measures.
Tuesday, 3 December 2013
Concious chocolate
Chili & chocolate & consciousness. Three elements of which I have an affinity with. This conscious chili hot chocolate is divine deliciousness, totally vegan, organic, raw ingredients of goodness & I thoroughly recommend for a mindful munch. The rose flavour is florally fabulous too... Check out the range at http://www.consciouschocolate.co.uk
Monday, 2 December 2013
Ruminating razorback
My Friday feeling of anxiety saw me stressed at work, sleepless at night & feeling VERY nervous on Saturday morning November 30th. My dreams still traumatising me, of being lost out on a mountain & navigational nightmares. But never the less I was excited, super excited about this spontaneous ultra marathon mountain challenge.
We left my work on Friday afternoon, car packed & carb loaded, Eliza drove us up the the alpine ranges, to Harrietville in Victoria, where we would run/walk/hobble through the mountains the next day. The weather forecast 13 degrees which was not entirely accurate. & I was slightly under prepared, not having had a day of rest before, not anticipating the elevation, not packing sunscreen for the entire day in the heat, not having enough food packed to eat to fuel, not being able to read the map or how to use a compass, just not expecting to be on my feet all day & did I mention the mountain summits? All three of them to conquer!
An early sunrise start & I soon found out about the terrain when the first 11.5 kilometres were a steady climb. Trailing through a beautiful forest & summiting on top of a rocky crag with stunning views & a sense of being on top of the world. A first moment of amazement looking out over the Victorian alpine ranges was breathtaking.
& then I literally tumbled down the other side, 'the falling over every rock' technique I used to descent is not advised. & to be honest when I got to the bottom, a little bruised, hot, hungry, thirsty I felt a moment of instability & doubt. & then I met Jim. & with Jim, I would begin the rest of the journey in company, with conversation & he became my guide & guardian angel!!
I clearly would have got completely lost in the bush if I wasn't with Jim. He led the way, advised me on the technically challenging areas & I followed in his footsteps & then we ran together across the plains on soft grass following the snow poles for miles before we climbed to the zenith mount Hotham & hit the rocky razorback's undulating paths. Through the changing landscapes we jogged & power walked the up hills & took rests for high sugar snacks. I thankfully picked up some power bars & salted peanuts from the 2 checkpoints along the 64k track. & with water from the springs I kept my body fuelled & hydrated for what turned out to be an epic day.
We finished as the sun lowered in the sky, a day of amazing natural beauty, an unforgettable experience, finished off when greeted at the finish line by Eliza, my gorgeous little runner friend with her yummy Moroccan chick pea soup & vegan cookies. & then with a glass of Pinot at the pub. The photos just don't do the extreme stunningness justice, I guess you had to be there! Respect to all the runners who were there.
Yours with sore legs, sunburned limbs & smiles xoxo
We left my work on Friday afternoon, car packed & carb loaded, Eliza drove us up the the alpine ranges, to Harrietville in Victoria, where we would run/walk/hobble through the mountains the next day. The weather forecast 13 degrees which was not entirely accurate. & I was slightly under prepared, not having had a day of rest before, not anticipating the elevation, not packing sunscreen for the entire day in the heat, not having enough food packed to eat to fuel, not being able to read the map or how to use a compass, just not expecting to be on my feet all day & did I mention the mountain summits? All three of them to conquer!
An early sunrise start & I soon found out about the terrain when the first 11.5 kilometres were a steady climb. Trailing through a beautiful forest & summiting on top of a rocky crag with stunning views & a sense of being on top of the world. A first moment of amazement looking out over the Victorian alpine ranges was breathtaking.
& then I literally tumbled down the other side, 'the falling over every rock' technique I used to descent is not advised. & to be honest when I got to the bottom, a little bruised, hot, hungry, thirsty I felt a moment of instability & doubt. & then I met Jim. & with Jim, I would begin the rest of the journey in company, with conversation & he became my guide & guardian angel!!
I clearly would have got completely lost in the bush if I wasn't with Jim. He led the way, advised me on the technically challenging areas & I followed in his footsteps & then we ran together across the plains on soft grass following the snow poles for miles before we climbed to the zenith mount Hotham & hit the rocky razorback's undulating paths. Through the changing landscapes we jogged & power walked the up hills & took rests for high sugar snacks. I thankfully picked up some power bars & salted peanuts from the 2 checkpoints along the 64k track. & with water from the springs I kept my body fuelled & hydrated for what turned out to be an epic day.
We finished as the sun lowered in the sky, a day of amazing natural beauty, an unforgettable experience, finished off when greeted at the finish line by Eliza, my gorgeous little runner friend with her yummy Moroccan chick pea soup & vegan cookies. & then with a glass of Pinot at the pub. The photos just don't do the extreme stunningness justice, I guess you had to be there! Respect to all the runners who were there.
Yours with sore legs, sunburned limbs & smiles xoxo
Sunday, 1 December 2013
Wednesday, 27 November 2013
Clearview yoga retreat
Seems like forever ago, my joyous yoga retreat at Clearview November 8-10th with the yogi Michele from sparkly yoga. My weekend of nurturing in nature, of yoga asana practice, prana breathing exercise at sunrise, observing silence until lunchtime, blissing out on wholesome hearty <3 vegan food, I met like minded souls & laughed merrily with my kindred spirits, had an emotional exchange with some English roses, danced in the magical tea tree forest, made some self observations & affirmations & created good energy that still resonate sparkles in my every day. I'll post my weekend diary soon but here's a few photos for now... Namaste.
the side crow pose!!! check out my arm balance =)
shoulder stands on top of the mountain
Nature walking thru the tea tree fairy forest.
Tuesday, 26 November 2013
kick ass kit
I've just done an interview for 'shop til you drop' magazine on behalf of Sportsgirl & as a PR exercise for our activewear range. I was asked to compile my list of activewear motivation must haves / dos. What is my routine around what I wear when I'm running around. My article is going to be in next month - January 9th issue to be precise (& of course I will blog it!) but here's a sneak peak before I go to press.....
How to make your active wear motivate you for exercise…
- I must have co-ordinating tops & bottoms. I just don't feel right mismatching & when you exercise you have got to feel right, so I buy sets.
- & I wear 2 sports bras!! Always.
- I lay out my exercise outfit the night before so I just have to jump into it in the morning & run out of the door.
- I like bright colours for outdoors, for safety, as well as looking super hot.
- I wear the same pieces for yoga, pilates, running, spin, strength training, whatever the exercise I feel comfortable in leggings, bras & an active top/tank & that's my style.
- It's so important to keep hydrated with all the exercise I do, so I drink lots of water, I carry my new Sportsgirl water bottle with me everywhere now.
- I take my own pink yoga mat to my class, the colour keeps me zen.
- Straight after training everything goes into the washing machine.
- When I want to run a marathon personal best I make a super power cape!!!
Sunday, 24 November 2013
Watermelon wonders
I read this little nugget of nutritional advice the other day ...
A substance in watermelon juice, L-citrulline, has been shown to improve physical performance and relieve muscle soreness. Recommendation is 16 ounces one hour prior to exercise.
& I took heed of said advice after my 20k today ...
A big chunk of deeelicious juiced watermelon with ice. Refreshing & restorative I believe. Plastic margarita glass, flamingo stirrer & monkey optional !!!
A substance in watermelon juice, L-citrulline, has been shown to improve physical performance and relieve muscle soreness. Recommendation is 16 ounces one hour prior to exercise.
A big chunk of deeelicious juiced watermelon with ice. Refreshing & restorative I believe. Plastic margarita glass, flamingo stirrer & monkey optional !!!
Friday, 22 November 2013
pinky's tips for zen running
I DON’T CLAIM TO BE FAST, ELITE, IN
ANY WAY PROFESSIONAL BUT I HAVE A PASSION FOR RUNNING & THIS IS WHAT HELPS
ME TO BE MOTIVATED & STRONG WITH A HEALTHY, HAPPY MIND & BODY…
· *** Run in the morning, when you’re fresh as a daisy & the day
has endless positive possibilities, the perfect way to start the day.
· *** Make a playlist of all your fave songs & shuffle them so
each tune is a surprise beat for your feet & you will want to run forever
so you can listen to them all!
· ***Start out slow to warm up your body & when you have got into
your groove, ramp it up, smash a hill, sprint a short distance, to make your
heart pump & to feel really alive.
· ***Push past your stopping point, stay strong, keep telling
yourself that you’re invincible & you will reap the rewards.
· ***Speaking of rewards, plan a post run treat – a smoothie of
goodness, a bliss ball fest, a long soak in a salt bath, etc.
· ***Listen to your breath, breathe in the fresh air, look at the
nature around you, be at one with the earth beneath your feet, be mindful, have
awareness.
· ***Smile at other runners along your trail & give out the good
energy you’re creating. Let go of anything that is weighing you down, feel the
freedom flow.
· *** Have yourself a goal, something to strive towards, to challenge
yourself, to achieve something personal to you, to be proud of you.
Thursday, 21 November 2013
recovery rest rehab
Following a few days of delayed onset muscular soreness & a sad face, I realised my intrinsic intimacy with inclinations to run. & when I can't run, woe betide those who wrong me! I am not my most patient & passive persona when I'm not putting one foot in front of the other relentlessly. I also don't seem to function as fabulously at work, my creativity flailing without the moments of flow & freedom for my mind to muse my method. & I've only had 3 days off from my beloved movement & meditation.
When I can't run I find that retail therapy is needed to fill the void, although my wardrobe is already full & there is no void in there. That said, strangely a new Stella McCartney bag just found it's way into my virtual shopping basket & then somehow is actually on it's way to me from the online shopping universe, amazing, I just don't know how it happened but it felt gooooood. & a vegan designer bag too so a purchase with a conscience to be proud of! However a very expensive recovery session I must admit!!!
Then I also find myself having a 'mexican stand off' !!!!! the cocktail !!!!! or a few of. A vodka based drink with lime juice, agave, coriander & chilli. & if this rest from running continues I think I will need rehab from the pesky mexicans!!!
So my plea to my legs. Please can you mend stronger soon, make my muscles feel light & not so tight. Please absorb the constant pressure I put on you like a true friend in a time of need. I promise to look after you with hydration & healthy fuel, with regular massage & that nice natural body oil you like to make you feel smooth & smell sweet. I will, from now on & forever, make sure you get plenty of rest when you need it in return for helping me run 64k next weekend! Help! Pleeeeaaaseee!!!
I was back with my feet on the streets this morning & made small steps in the right direction. With a pilates session thrown in to give me better alignment & core strength I hope to feel stronger & streamlined. & of course I will look fabulous with my new designer bag when it arrives & when the planets align & my legs will be fine. Good times ahead to one & all xox
Sunday, 17 November 2013
Adventure running
This weekend I have been on a trail running adventure!! I found a new little runner friend, her name's Eliza & she took me trail running & to meet a real adventurer!
With a car packed with cashews & almonds, bliss balls, spiced fruit bread & nut butter. More food to follow, the trail run first, mapped out by a great guy called Andrew, in the Yarra ranges. A 32k out & back course taking us deep down through the forest firstly on a grassy hill, then technical & tricky underfoot, jumping branches & the descent becoming pretty steep. It then flattened so I could slip into a comfortable pace & catch my breath & I became aware of the beauty of my environment. Surrounded by tall pines, leafy ferns, sunlight streams & the sounds of nature. Stunningness.
We hit a road & ignoring the private property signs (naughty) we ran up a winding road to pass a secluded house but there were a big group of young men & there was a weird vibe, one of them told us to turn back, that it was private property, the others were oddly interested in us. So we ran back down the hill, wondering what all these (some semi naked) guys were up to? It was at the very bottom of the hill that we saw the sign for the 'drug rehabilitation' centre!! Guess the boys had been a bit naughty too!
We returned to our forest trail & as the day got hotter, the hills we had ran down, we had to run back up & running got harder. I tried to take on the hills although it was tough, the terrain took my breath away, perhaps 2-3k of hard uphill, I power marched with cadence, I reached the top finally & the last 2k was a run down on the road track, I ran down pretty fast gaining momentum & I felt fabulous & that was our beautiful run done in 4 hours. We stretched in the sun, fuelled on fruit & nuts, had a lavender oil bucket wash at the side of the road & we were fresh & good to go...
The next chapter of our adventure weekend was to meet Beau Miles 'the adventurer' we had been invited through Eliza although she had never properly met him either, strange circumstances but turned out to be totally cool. I had not encountered Beau's admirable outdoor enthusiast achievements therefore had no preconceptions. But what an interesting man...
So Beau welcomed us with his campfire, home baked bread & pumpkin soup sipped whilst the sun dipped over the paddocks & rolling fields. Eliza had also made lemon pepper pita chips with homemade hummus, balsamic marinated olives & orange blossom cake. & Beau's hospitality was much appreciated & the campfire conversation was resplendent as the Pinot noir flowed freely. It was a fun, random evening with a few strangers from different backgrounds & lifestyles with the very common interest of running. What an amazing sport to create a connection between this quirky concoction of human beings.
Beau made a film of his amazing running adventure across the Australian Alpines, check out beaumilesfilm.com it's pretty inspiring stuff.....
With a car packed with cashews & almonds, bliss balls, spiced fruit bread & nut butter. More food to follow, the trail run first, mapped out by a great guy called Andrew, in the Yarra ranges. A 32k out & back course taking us deep down through the forest firstly on a grassy hill, then technical & tricky underfoot, jumping branches & the descent becoming pretty steep. It then flattened so I could slip into a comfortable pace & catch my breath & I became aware of the beauty of my environment. Surrounded by tall pines, leafy ferns, sunlight streams & the sounds of nature. Stunningness.
We hit a road & ignoring the private property signs (naughty) we ran up a winding road to pass a secluded house but there were a big group of young men & there was a weird vibe, one of them told us to turn back, that it was private property, the others were oddly interested in us. So we ran back down the hill, wondering what all these (some semi naked) guys were up to? It was at the very bottom of the hill that we saw the sign for the 'drug rehabilitation' centre!! Guess the boys had been a bit naughty too!
We returned to our forest trail & as the day got hotter, the hills we had ran down, we had to run back up & running got harder. I tried to take on the hills although it was tough, the terrain took my breath away, perhaps 2-3k of hard uphill, I power marched with cadence, I reached the top finally & the last 2k was a run down on the road track, I ran down pretty fast gaining momentum & I felt fabulous & that was our beautiful run done in 4 hours. We stretched in the sun, fuelled on fruit & nuts, had a lavender oil bucket wash at the side of the road & we were fresh & good to go...
The next chapter of our adventure weekend was to meet Beau Miles 'the adventurer' we had been invited through Eliza although she had never properly met him either, strange circumstances but turned out to be totally cool. I had not encountered Beau's admirable outdoor enthusiast achievements therefore had no preconceptions. But what an interesting man...
So Beau welcomed us with his campfire, home baked bread & pumpkin soup sipped whilst the sun dipped over the paddocks & rolling fields. Eliza had also made lemon pepper pita chips with homemade hummus, balsamic marinated olives & orange blossom cake. & Beau's hospitality was much appreciated & the campfire conversation was resplendent as the Pinot noir flowed freely. It was a fun, random evening with a few strangers from different backgrounds & lifestyles with the very common interest of running. What an amazing sport to create a connection between this quirky concoction of human beings.
Beau made a film of his amazing running adventure across the Australian Alpines, check out beaumilesfilm.com it's pretty inspiring stuff.....
Thursday, 14 November 2013
never too busy to run...
but clearly too busy to blog.
The main thing is I have been training to run & working to live & doing yoga to breathe & pilates to align & sleeping to rest & eating to fuel. My training diary is packed with body movement & motivation which has given me great mindset.
In the last 8 weeks I have -
been to 14 yoga classes
& 1 weekend yoga retreat
been to 13 pilates reformer classes
& 9 personal training sessions
with intervals thrown into PT
I've swam 4k & had 4 saunas
& spin classes = 3 (1 a 2 hour power class)
have smashed my marathon PB
& have ran just over 400k's!!!
I've rolled on the power plates
& I've eaten many vegan plates...
Hoping that all of the above gives me the power to run 64k in 2 weeks time. I made a spontaneous decision to run the 'razorback run' out in the Victorian mountains somewhere... Excited.
I have new super quick recipes for you too... roasted cauliflower with cumin, coriander & almonds. This simple side dish I served with chickpea & tomato curry... mmmmmm
Break the cauliflower into florets & blanche in boiling water for 2 mins. Lay into an oven dish & add olive oil, almonds, ground cumin & coriander. Roast in the oven for 15 mins.
Fry onions & garlic in coconut oil, add a diced red pepper & fry until all softened. Mix in tinned tomatoes, tsp turmeric, cinnamon, paprika, cloves. Then add tinned chick peas & simmer for 15 mins.
So simple & so fragrant & I served with quinoa. enjoy.
& I hope to be back soon with tales of my trail running adventure this weekend.....
The main thing is I have been training to run & working to live & doing yoga to breathe & pilates to align & sleeping to rest & eating to fuel. My training diary is packed with body movement & motivation which has given me great mindset.
In the last 8 weeks I have -
been to 14 yoga classes
& 1 weekend yoga retreat
been to 13 pilates reformer classes
& 9 personal training sessions
with intervals thrown into PT
I've swam 4k & had 4 saunas
& spin classes = 3 (1 a 2 hour power class)
have smashed my marathon PB
& have ran just over 400k's!!!
I've rolled on the power plates
& I've eaten many vegan plates...
Hoping that all of the above gives me the power to run 64k in 2 weeks time. I made a spontaneous decision to run the 'razorback run' out in the Victorian mountains somewhere... Excited.
I have new super quick recipes for you too... roasted cauliflower with cumin, coriander & almonds. This simple side dish I served with chickpea & tomato curry... mmmmmm
Break the cauliflower into florets & blanche in boiling water for 2 mins. Lay into an oven dish & add olive oil, almonds, ground cumin & coriander. Roast in the oven for 15 mins.
Fry onions & garlic in coconut oil, add a diced red pepper & fry until all softened. Mix in tinned tomatoes, tsp turmeric, cinnamon, paprika, cloves. Then add tinned chick peas & simmer for 15 mins.
So simple & so fragrant & I served with quinoa. enjoy.
& I hope to be back soon with tales of my trail running adventure this weekend.....
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