My summer of fun has turned into my summer of rehab. I am currently going to occupational therapy and physical therapy. Six weeks ago, I fell running uphill in the woods. I was training with my friend who is a faster, stronger runner than me. I didn’t want to lose her in the woods, and was doing my best to keep up. As we came to the end of the hot and humid run, I went down running up a hill. I actually fell twice on the run. The second time, I fell on my shoulder and ended up not being able to lift my arm without pain. The diagnosis was tendonitis and bursitis. I can’t be at my best if my body is hurting. So how do I fix it? I started OT and PT. I decided to include PT because I was concerned about my balance and falling down. Was there an issue with my brain/foot connection, my progressive glasses, my balance, or all three? I don’t want to be the kind of old person who is always afraid of falling. I will figure it out! I did get a shot of cortisone in my shoulder, which is like magic. Within a couple of days, my shoulder felt so much better.

I just got back from a hour long run in Huber woods with my friend Dorian. We did 8 long hill repeats. It was another hot and humid run. You could actually feel the steam rising. It is beautiful at Huber Woods. It is another world in the middle of New Jersey. I feel like I am running in Vermont. The Joe Pye weed is in bloom along the trail and the grass was recently mowed which makes for an incredible run. I am so grateful to be able to run again.

September is right around the corner. Are you interested in cold plunging with the plungettes this year? It is a good idea to start cold plunge training in September when the water is warm and just keep on going. It is amazing how the body can adjust to the colder temperatures. I have really missed it this summer. Last year, I would put 32 pounds of ice and add it to my bath water three times a week. I didn’t want to be that crazy about it this year. I only did it once.

Benefits of cold water plunging.

• Reduces inflammation and pain.
• Increases metabolism.
• Boost your mood.
• Improves immune system.
• Improves mental resilience.
• Gives your hair a lustrous shine.

Interested?

Love,

Mary