Holy Hot Yoga

on October 27, 2010

Woah! Hot yoga was a killer tonight. So thankful I brought Gatorade because I was drip, drip, drippin’ all over my mat the entire time. I actually even had to walk out at a point! It was exhausting. But great, too. 🙂

In fact, yoga was probably exactly what I needed. I am starting to get really mentally freaked out about the marathon on Saturday. I don’t remember doing this before my first marathon, so it’s strange that I feel so totally overwhelmed and nervous before my second. Maybe the stakes are higher because I have bigger goals than “just finish?” Yoga was helpful in calming my nerves!

Afternoon snack was cashews:

And a brownie! 🙂

And we are running REALLY low on groceries because there are currently four adults living in my house (my in-laws are here). So dinner was something I scraped together:

A PB sandwich with raspberries…

And a fun Green Monster:

Which contained something new…. Almond Breeze Chocolate. Mmmm! Also in the mix was 2 cups spinach, a banana, and a scoop of brown rice protein.

Heading through the DVR… Private Practice and Grey’s Anatomy, here we come!

{ 65 comments }

grocery goddess jen October 27, 2010, 9:17 pm
I hope yoga helped with the freak out…you know that no matter what happens with the marathon you’ll learn something from it, meaning your readers will too!
Evan Thomas October 27, 2010, 9:21 pm
This week’s Greys is amazing! I just rewatched it
holly @ couchpotatoathlete October 27, 2010, 9:24 pm
I recently saw chocolate almond breeze — I need to pick some up!

I sure wish I had that brownie 🙂
Kaitlyn (College Girl Runs) October 27, 2010, 9:25 pm
I was SOO nervous the week leading up to my marathon, once the taper started….so I completely understand. It helped me to actually look at my training and realize how prepared I was! You have trained and fueled your body adequately so I know you’ll do great 🙂 Stay positive!
Stace October 27, 2010, 9:26 pm
Hi Caitlin,

I wanted to pose a question. I see so many people (like you) so controlled in their eating. I really wish I could be like that. But I fail at it.
I eat more than I need on some occasions. I even seem to eat all the wrong foods. I “overdo” everything.
And at night, most people seem to drink some tea and a light snack. Me? I will start with a variety of goods. And then flock to some cookies, etc. The cookies might even be healthy! But its still late at night, and I’m already quite full and what my body really wants is a few tums. Trust me on that one 🙂
Unlike you, I’m not a runner. I don’t do any structured cardio at all in fact do to a muscular disorder that prevents it. So I have no way to appease any of it.
Am I the only one that does this? I feel alone in this. I wish I knew that other people eat a full days worth of hefty meals and still succumb to late night major calories.
Any thoughts?
- Caitlin October 27, 2010, 9:35 pm
  Aw, I’m sorry you are struggling with this emotionally. I know it can be hard to feel alone but I assure you that you are not alone and lots of people go through the same thing. Mindless snacking is definitely OK every now and then, but if the frequency in which you engage in it affects your mental or physical health, I would really recommend talking to a registered dietitian about it. They can give you great professional advice about your specific situation. In the meantime, some alternatives might include opening up a good book when you feel like mindlessly snacking or doing a chore like folding the laundry. I know a lot of people will go for a small stroll around the block just for some fresh air, too, I don’t know if that’s possible with your muscular condition.
  
  As a side note, I know Angela at Ohsheglows.com has written several good posts about a similar topic; she has some excellent first-person experiences to share: http://ohsheglows.com/2010/01/20/binge-eating-why-you-shouldnt-feel-ashamed/
- eml October 27, 2010, 10:01 pm
  Stace,
  
  You are NOT alone. Trust me on that.
  - Emma (Sweet Tooth Runner) October 28, 2010, 5:14 am
    True, you definitely aren’t alone Stace. I went through the same thing, and the same emotional turmoil, but it will get better! Caitlin’s advice is really good, and I read Angela’s posts when I was going through it and I found it really helped, so I hope it helps you too! 🙂
  - Stace October 28, 2010, 7:52 am
    Thanks.
    I sometimes feel maybe its not so abnormal. It is overwhelming to see people so controlled. Its more overwhelming to see some people consider compensation means miles of exercise the following day. Given my condition, cardiovascular exercise is not an option for me. I do physiotherapy pool exercise 15 minutes 2 times a week. But that is all. So its guilt piled upon guilt upon guilt. But maybe I’m not alone after all. Maybe it is not as “shocking” or embarrassing as its made to be.
Jessica @ Jessica Balances October 27, 2010, 9:27 pm
My hot yoga class night was fantastically sweaty and I loooved it! I love leaving with soaked clothes and a calm state of mind. I hope you find some peace before your marathon – you trained so hard and are going to rock the race.
tina October 27, 2010, 9:34 pm
hasn’t greys been good this season?

hot yoga ALWAYS hits the spot when i’m stressed! don’t worry, you will do fantastic! stay positive!
Wei-Wei October 27, 2010, 9:34 pm
I’ve never thought about adding fresh berries to PB toast – I imagine it would be amazing. If only I could get fresh berries here… 🙁
Hope October 27, 2010, 9:41 pm
Glad the yoga helped, I’ve never tried hot yoga but it sounds intense! I’m sure its perfectly normal to freak out a little before your marathon! It’s not something you do everyday and so much planning and training goes into it, your bound to feel the effects of that! Get a good nights sleep and it will all seem better tomorrow!
Jamie @ Food in Real Life October 27, 2010, 9:46 pm
I think the nerves are from having to compare times/results/experiences in your past marathon. Plus, wasn’t your last marathon kind of brutal? It’s total normal to be nervous! You’re going to do great though 🙂
- Caitlin October 27, 2010, 9:47 pm
  soooo brutual
Kelly October 27, 2010, 9:57 pm
I think the first marathon is always mentally easier because you have no expectations…nothing to compare it to. But the second is more nerve racking because now you have a time to compare it to. You have more knowledge…but you will be fine! I know it! You have trained hard and it will pay off. I always just try to focus on what exactly I am nervous about and then the things I have no control over (like weather) I try to let go of. I admit to myself that it will be hard and at points it will hurt but then I remind myself of how strong I am, how much I have trained, and how much I want it. Believe in yourslef, Caitlin…I do.
- Caitlin October 27, 2010, 9:58 pm
  Thank you 🙂
Mary (What's Cookin' with Mary) October 27, 2010, 9:58 pm
I have been feeling like I should really try out yoga these days.. I do my normal stretching routine, but just need more! Hot yoga sounds kinda… scurry!? ;P I just need to find a place that works with peeps that have maja back issues…
- Karen October 28, 2010, 12:25 am
  Mary, I had major back pain after moving some furniture a few years ago (plus, I’m a nurse; I don’t think I know any nurses who don’t have back pain). I put up with it for too long but finally went to my doctor who prescribed physical therapy. What therapy amounted to was strengthening exercises. I had always dabbled with yoga, but started practicing regularly after I finished with PT. If I don’t work out, I get back pain. As soon as I start again, back pain goes away.
  
  So, the moral of my story is: go for it! I definitely recommend that you start with a good yoga teacher (or even PT) who can show you how do move through the asanas properly and to your ability level. But yoga asanas gently move your spine through its entire range of motion which is excellent for spine health.
  
  Good luck!
e m l October 27, 2010, 10:02 pm
Nerves are a good sign.

Chocolate Almond Breeze is the best – your just trying it?!

I like my brownies brown, as in chocolate brown – but I’d take that one 🙂
sarah k. @ the pajama chef October 27, 2010, 10:04 pm
i made pretty much the same green monster today for breakfast! 2 small bananas (or 1 large one that was cut in half- i froze it/them awhile ago and couldn’t tell because it was chopped up), spinach, chocolate milk, & vanilla yog! yum!
Anna S. @ History Running Girl October 27, 2010, 10:05 pm
You can do it!! You have had some awesome training runs!
Candice October 27, 2010, 10:20 pm
I think it’s totally normal for you to be more nervous this time! Just like you said, there is more at stake because you have higher goals. Plus, you know what to expect, which I know for me would be very nerve-wracking.

I know you’re going to do great though. Everyone has seen you get out there, mile after mile, so dedicated to your training. Just trust the process and trust your training. It will get you through! We’re all rooting for you:)
Alison (Ali on the Run) October 27, 2010, 10:25 pm
This might be a silly question, but is there a difference between hot yoga and Bikram yoga? Is one hotter than the other? Or are the styles different? Or are the terms interchangeable? Clearly I’m no yogi, but I’d love to get into it to balance out all the running and high impact stuff I’ve been doing.
- Caitlin October 28, 2010, 2:49 pm
  Bikram is a hot yoga with a set of poses that are repeated over and over. Hot yoga is just up to the teacher. Bikram is more rigid (some people like that).
Carla @ Will Run for Health October 27, 2010, 10:35 pm
Oh you are braver than I am! I have picked up the chocolate Almond Breeze several times and then put it back and opt for the plain ole’ vanilla. I bet it was yummy in a green monster! Someone gave me a really good tip once to calm nerves about a scary event. It’s a technique called “anchoring”. You pick something that serves as a visual reminder to breath, be present, and believe in yourself. It can be a sting tied to your wrist, a special piece of jewlery, a key chain, etc. My “anchor” currently is a hot pink silly band in the shape of an octopus. I wore it while I was studying for my boards and now that I’m training for my marathon in December. Every time I see it, I remember that “it’s all going to work out”.

Hope that helps 🙂
Crystal October 27, 2010, 10:40 pm
Off topic, but thought you might be interested to see the latest Marie Claire has printed:

http://www.shine.yahoo.com/channel/health/controversy-over-fatties-sparks-apology-2404430/

They are off their freakin’ rockers over there.
- Caitlin October 28, 2010, 2:48 pm
  I agree!
Ali W October 27, 2010, 10:41 pm
My hot yoga class was out of control hard today too!! i seriously left class tonight looking like I just went swimming in all my clothes I don’t think I’ve ever been so sweaty! I totally agree that yoga can be such a powerful grounding force. I may be physically exhausted when I leave class but my mind is usually pretty clear and energetic. You totally got this marathon! You’ve trained well and you’re gonna rock it!
chelsey @ clean eating chelsey October 27, 2010, 10:45 pm
I went to m mom’s tonight and came home with some goodie bags so I didn’t have to go grocery shopping tonight. The best!
ida October 27, 2010, 10:50 pm
I think it’s more nerve wracking the 2nd time b/c you know what you’re up against. But you been running well, and I’m sure you’ll rock this marathon.
Michele October 27, 2010, 10:57 pm
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Grey’s Anatomy and Private Practice – a bit more than I should. LOL PP has gotten pretty racey this season…at least to me!

When you make your green monster; what kind of spinach do you use? Loose leaf or what? I’m “thinking” I might try it, you ALWAYS swear they taste good. LOL
- Caitlin October 28, 2010, 2:48 pm
  baby organic!
Charlie October 27, 2010, 10:58 pm
I tried chocolate soy milk a while ago and thought it was disgusting (even though I like vanilla soy milk). Now I’m scared to try chocolate almond breeze!
- Karen October 28, 2010, 12:28 am
  Almond breeze is WAY better than soy milk. No comparison. Try it!
Katrina October 27, 2010, 11:04 pm
I get nervous for ANY race I was fine for my half because my goal was to just finish and come off that mountain alive and breathing. For the upcoming half, I’m a big bundle of nerves that make me annoying to anybody who will listen. You’ve put in some great training and you will have a wonderful race!

Almond breeze! I got some samples from them for the tasting challenge and I loved the chocolate for shakes and smoothies. It wasn’t that great to just sit down and sip on the front porch, though.
Jessica @ The Process of Healing October 27, 2010, 11:06 pm
I don’t think i’ve seen Grey’s in 2 weeks?! My DVR is full!!! Need to get caught up!
Rebecca October 27, 2010, 11:11 pm
I did yoga during my taper and it helped tremendously with nerves. I think it also burns off some of the extra energy that you have during taper week.
You’re going to do great in your race! Be proud of yourself for signing up for another marathon. Most people never even attempt one.
Michelle (The Runner's Plate) October 27, 2010, 11:21 pm
Sending you best wishes for Saturday!!
maria @ Chasing the Now October 27, 2010, 11:21 pm
Don’t get yourself too worked up over the marathon. You’ve put in the training, so believe in yourself! You are going to do wonderful.
Katy (The Singing Runner) October 27, 2010, 11:58 pm
I’ve never done hot yoga (or any yoga) before but I want to try it!!!

Don’t be nervous for your marathon! You are going to be amazing! Granted, I’ve never done a marathon so I don’t have much room to speak (I’ll probably be really nervous for my half marathon in January). 🙂 I’ll be thinking of you Saturday while I’m on my long run!
Meaghen October 27, 2010, 11:59 pm
You’ve said numerous times that you feel better trained for this marathon than the last one. Just keep reminding yourself of that. You’ll rock it!
Kiran October 28, 2010, 12:03 am
You know something. You and Meghann has actually re-instilled my interest into Yoga. I was never more than a beginner earlier, but now I am so determined to go beyond than a beginner’s level. Just awaiting for a great deal on Groupon 😉 I just wanted to say “thank you for the encouragements” and good luck in your marathon. Shrug of the nerves girl 🙂 You can do it!
Karen October 28, 2010, 12:33 am
Along the past few weeks, you have commented about how great you’ve felt with your training, recovering fast, etc. Right now, you are a pitcher winning in the bottom of the ninth with 2 outs and 2 strikes. You have to trust all your awesome hard work and “shake it off.” Try to use that yoga mediatation to tell your mind to knock it off already — your body knows what it’s doing. I love Carla’s Anchoring idea!
Try to stop worrying! You rock and you’re gonna kill this marathon!
Red October 28, 2010, 1:55 am
If the higher stakes make you feel overwhelmed and nervous, why don’t you use the “just finish”? You are not a professional runner, and not everybody can finish a marathon. You are an amazing person, you don’t need to prove yourself in a race on purpose.

You are my hero even though you just FINISH a marathon or not.
- Caitlin October 28, 2010, 2:47 pm
  🙂 thank you sweetie.
Lana October 28, 2010, 3:18 am
Just imagine yourself finishing the race. That might help.

p.s. I love random dinners. Sometimes they are more satisfying, lol
Emma (Sweet Tooth Runner) October 28, 2010, 5:16 am
You’ll totally ace this marathon Caitlin, don’t worry! We all believe in you- you just need to believe in yourself! YOU CAN DO IT! 🙂
Eats Veggies October 28, 2010, 5:46 am
I’ve been lurking around for awhile, and I saw the post about marie claire and the article about the HLS. It seems that they are also attacking ‘the otherside’ so to speak – http://www.marieclaire.com/sex-love/dating-blog/overweight-couples-on-television

Here is an EXCELLENT response on it if you are interested: http://thepolymathchronicles.blogspot.com/

I’m not sure if it’s the same person who wrote that article about HLS, but if it is – wow, is all I can say.
- Caitlin October 28, 2010, 7:55 am
  Fortunately (unfortunately?), it was not written by the same author. But I agree – MC doesn’t seem to like anyone who doesn’t fit their very narrow definition of beautiful.
Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) October 28, 2010, 7:21 am
I had a rough mental day yesterday too. I am really hoping today is better. I know you will do well on your run!
Jessica (Fit and Clean) October 28, 2010, 7:41 am
I’ve made my own almond milk but never bought any commercially. Do they taste good? Do they have a lot of sugar in them? 😉 I always wanted to try them but didn’t want to spend the money and discover they were gross!
- Caitlin October 28, 2010, 2:47 pm
  I like them 🙂 But I’m too lazy to make my own.
Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine October 28, 2010, 7:50 am
I looove chocolate almond milk. It’s the best in cereal- just the right amount of sweet to start your day. I can completely understand what you’re saying about the stakes being higher, but just remember that finishing is a huge accomplishment no matter what your time is 🙂
Nicole - yuppie yogini October 28, 2010, 7:56 am
I love your idea to use fresh fruit in place of jelly. So obvious, but I’ve never thought of it!
Ella October 28, 2010, 8:05 am
ooh chocolate almond milk? sounds interesting!
i’m running super low on groceries too, i live in an apartment with five other girls, its impossible to keep some objects like peanut butter and milk in stock lol
Amber October 28, 2010, 8:10 am
I love chocolate almond milk. We go through so many of them in our oats and smoothies. I have run two marathons (training for my third in January). I was definitely more mentally freaked out before the second one. The distance and the experience is no longer new. This time you have more goals. I think that makes a huge difference from first time to second time.
Kristy October 28, 2010, 8:22 am
I’ve seen the cholocate almond breeeze – I must try it!
Bess @ Bess Be Fit October 28, 2010, 8:31 am
I’ve been meaning to grab the chocolate flavor! I heard that almond breeze also makes non-dairy ice cream now…100 calories for 1/2 a cup and no fat. I gotta find that! I think Whole Foods has it 🙂
Natalia - a side of simple October 28, 2010, 10:21 am
I don’t blame you for getting a bit nervous. I think you and other bloggers who publicize their running goals and races are so brave! You’ll do awesome and just remember you’re running for yourself, for YOU.
Mary @ Bites and Bliss October 28, 2010, 12:27 pm
I’ve always wanted to try hot yoga but I don’t know if anywhere around here offers it..
Shayla October 28, 2010, 2:52 pm
Hey Caitlin! Random question, but where are those cashews from? They look so salty and delicious – love my nuts extra salty! 🙂
- Caitlin October 28, 2010, 4:28 pm
  they are sugared 🙂 but they are from earth fare.
  - Shayla October 28, 2010, 7:08 pm
    Ooooo yummy! Sugared?! Even better! No wonder they look so delicious – thanks! 🙂
Mat @ Hot Yoga October 28, 2010, 4:20 pm
I love love love hot yoga. You’re right girl, it’s so calming for the nerves – in fact I get jittery if I miss my class. Good luck with the marathon, and I hope you meet your goals, whatever they are! Namaste, Mat.

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