All this to say that training for the race has provided an interesting perspective on the madness of 2020-2021. Six months before the race, my coach has been giving me the dreaded "zone 2 training". This is basically forcing yourself to run or ride slowly, not allowing your heart rate to rise very high, and doing this for HOURS at a time.
Boring? Oh yes. Good for you? Oh yes! Other than increasing your body's endurance, it also forces your brain to be ok with moving... forward... slowly.
Unexpected benefit? It's helped me deal with this year as it crawls... slowly ... by. Whether you like it or not, riding or running in zone 2 forces you to notice unexpected details around you: that house with the lovely Christmas decorations, that tree that looks like an old man... And you start appreciating the small things.
I found the same to be true about how I deal with life. Focusing on small details has helped me appreciate my home, my children, the comforting rhythms of everyday life. And that, more than anything, has helped me remember that all the madness on twitter and in the world outside is only temporary. It shall all pass. But the moment of bliss as my son and I notice a bald eagle baby frolicking with its mother... priceless.
Cow Country Cozy
It's been a few weeks since I've shared some recommendations to help you increase your hygge this apocalyptic winter. Time to make up for it.
1. First off, don't forget to sign up for a chance to win a bundle of books and an ereader. All the details on this contest are here.
2. I've got a new book recommendation for you! M L Spencer's Dragon Mage is a wonderfully-written fantasy very much in the classic epic fantasy vein. The writing is beautiful, and perhaps the nicest touch is the main character. I won't spoil it, but you can't help falling in love with him immediately. Check it out here.
3. A bit of inspiration. You know the story of the Lord of the Flies? Yes, it's a bit like what's going on in Washington these days. Except, that story was inspired by a real-life story, and the real story is nothing short of miraculous. You don't want to miss the real story behind the novel.
4. Finally, perhaps the best thing any of us can do during this period of history is create. Make things. Add to the beauty in the world. And yes, that may sound airy-fairy if you don't have the habit of butt in chair, practicing your craft. But I can help. The thing you need to start with is a ritual to help begin your work. I'm going to do a free workshop on how to set up your best writing ritual, but the information can be useful for any creative pursuit, not only writing. Sign up here.
I'd also love to hear from you! I'm short on good podcasts to listen to lately. Do you have any recommendations?
And thank you for coming along with me on my writerly adventures!
~Nicky
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