Someone who is busier than you is running right now.

Late at night again...but it just will always stay my most productive time of the day...my brain turns on when the sun sets :)

Today was a nice day...and I am not looking forward to a long working-weekend...I've got to work Saturday and Sunday and yeah, not much of a weekend left. My only 'Off-time' is my dad's and his girlfriend's birthday party tomorrow night. I am excited for that because I can see my brothers again *yipieh* For all of you who don't know that yet: I've got three brothers and I love them dearly - we are all roughly 2 years apart with me being the 2nd oldest - and my brothers are the best blessings my parents could have given me! 

My brothers also workout quite a lot! My oldest brother ran 100km in total just in the month of April
My youngest brother is the fitness-boy, he loves to
workout at gym - muscles of steel...but yeah, that's how you get the ladies, right?! ;) And my younger brother does a little bit of everything, workouts, inline-skating etc. - it's in the family :) My dad played handball his whole life and my mom trained our first dog, even all the way up to the German championship...so I better get my bum up and do something to use these good genes ;)
I was really irritated yesterday! I planned to go for my run yesterday evening, but in Germany the weather was just plain annoying. It looked as if this enormous thunderstorm was about to start. Since I've been in one recently while jogging I didn't want to experience that again (pretty scary!) - so instead I just said I'd wait until the thunderstorm is over -I hate finding excuses and the weather should never be one of them, but in case of thunderstorms I got a bit more careful. So yes...I waited...and waited...and waited....but NOTHING happened. I heard thunder, I saw lightning and the sky was black...but the rain never came...so instead I waited and hoped it would pass. After having been patient for roughly 1 hour I decided to skip my jog and instead do a home-workout.
This picture was my motivation...these legs...so flippin' gorgeous! This is what a woman should look like...not skinny, not fat - but toned and fit...HEALTHY! So instead I worked tons of lunges, side planks, planks, sit-ups, push-ups (women!), crunches and all sorts of workouts to train my bum, calves, thighs and back (especially lower back). It wasn't as rewarding as my run - because I was still frustrated about the weather during my workout - but once I was sweaty and pink in my face I knew it was at least as necessary :) 

So today I was really superstoked that EVENTUALLY it had rained during the night...I knew today I'd run no matter what! And I did - it was still raining, but I just didn't care :) At least there weren't any signs for a thunderstorm.
Today's run was fantastic! I didn't check for how long I ran, but it must have been roughly about 8-9k. I ran for 55 minutes (without stopping, HA!) And the run was just SO beautiful! I don't like running the same path too many times, so instead I just chose to run 'as I felt'.
This got me to some really nice corners! I didn't want to run next to roads or where I'd see lots of people, so I just went on some forest trails (SO good!) and through meadows, next to little streams and...oh boy...I saw the most beautiful sunset I have ever seen in this town, it even brought happy tears to my eyes. It was so rewarding! The run was pretty mean at times because I happened to choose one with lots of hills in between - but then again this is what makes it interesting to me. Uphill, downhill and lots of little challenges along the way to keep me and my body busy. Half-way through the run I got SO tired and my right knee was acting up a bit, but I just didn't want to stop...I felt like I was on drugs...so instead I just slowed down a bit and concentrated on my core and controlling how I balanced my body weight on my knees...I focussed on my leg muscles, especially on my thigh muscles and it worked wonders, it was fantastic! Within a couple minutes my knee-pain went away and running was enjoyable again. Pain! Ha, take that! I can deal even with you :)

I know I must be careful though and I shouldn't push it too much - but I just knew that my knee is just not used to this and I should learn to run correctly.
I was sweating like a pig, but it was worth it. The air was perfect! Fresh, right after/during the rain and so clean :) I ran with dandlelions, and all sorts of flowers next to me, I jumped over little snails and rainworms that crawled along the way...over branches and rocks...it was lovely! Almost like a little trail-run :) I paid attention to some other paths along the way so I'll be able to vary the next one a bit. I will remember this path because I barely saw any people along the way...I love to run like that - all alone with my thoughts and ideas. It's just my feet on the path, my thoughts floating freely, nature around me and this
wonderful feeling of contentment...when I run I know everything will be alright, when I run I am balanced within, when I run I find myself in ways I didn't find before. I can't believe I am saying all this, but I think I have honestly found a new passion. It's still tough at times...but I know that the day will come when even these little problems will be gone :) 
So yes, tomorrow I'll be able to rest *yay* and then I'll run again on Sunday. My plan is to run every second day...a rest day in between (or a light workout/yoga session) and increasing my k's each week...I shouldn't overdo it I know, but I'll be careful. Though I must admit...I'll push myself as long as I can :)

In 11 days I've got my next run lined up. The Dortmund university run (5k) - I'd love to do this one in under 30 minutes...I saw the run online and it seems to be pretty flat, so it might be possible. My first run was 00:32:02 and it was very hilly...maybe I can save a couple minutes because of that. I'd love to try this out! My uni run in June will be tougher though, I heard that the last big part is pretty much just uphill (especially the last bit, ugh!) but that doesn't mean I can't tackle it...I just shouldn't expect myself to beat my hopefully new best time. If I can run under 30 minutes in 11 days in a flat area, I might not be able to beat that in a superhilly area. So if I can only get under 30 minutes on June 6 I'm more than pleased with that result :)
During tonight's run I also sprinted a bit in between, not as much as the other day because I had to be a bit more careful due to my knee whining ;) but the last 200m I just raced home...haha, it was awesome! The adrenaline in my body fueled me so much that I just jumped up the stairs afterwards...crazy person, I know.

I also had some really good meals today, which I enjoyed a lot! My breakfast consisted out of 2 scrambled eggs, 1 pear, 1 sliced kiwi, a handful of nuts (not roasted, not salted) and a couple baby carrots - it was so delicious and fueling. 

I had orange juice with half part water and the juice of a lemon with it, best combo ever! 

And then I had potatoes with chicken fillet, I fried this with a bit of olive oil, garlic, onions and fresh tomatoes...it was really yummy :)

I am also trying to drink at least between 2-3 litres of water a day, sometimes it works, sometimes not...but in all cases I am getting at least 2l. Soon I'll also add green tea to my drinking habit again, I found this awesome online shop where they offer a lot of fair trade products and I found a great green tea as well. Will order it soon! I also found (finally!) Tahini - the one extra ingredient for a successful hummus. Yipieh! I'll make my very own hummus sometime within the next weeks and this was missing :) Can't wait to try it out!

So yes...looks like I am getting more and more into this new-found habit. I do have a choice, yes, but I am feeling really good with this :) I am not even planning to drink too much tomorrow night, I'd rather enjoy some good food and dance the night away. So tomorrow might be my 'cheat-night' - my dad and his girlfriend are sucker's for good food ;) Which doesn't necessary mean it's healthy, but I'll see what I can choose from.
So yes, that's it for today really! I am going to read a bit in bed and then finally get some sleep so I can be fit for work tomorrow.
Today I went grocery shopping as well (best workout: Bring only 2 bags with you and then CARRY everything home...best workout for your shoulders and arms...trust me!) And so my fridge is filled with good stuff (shrimp, lean meat, peppers, asparagus), I also bought bananas, kiwis, more pears and lemons, whole grain bread, aubergine, potatoes and tomatoes...and yes...a tiny bar of chocolate as well, I admit it :) But only for the little treats in between ;) I just can't help it...chocolate and I...we are like...you know...married :D
So yip - time to hit the pillows! May you all have a lovely, fun-filled weekend...and to the ones that have to work as well: Keep your head up! We'll make it through and once we get our paycheck we'll see why we did that ;)


Good night everyone,


your Janners!

I may not be there, yet - but I am closer than yesterday!

Today has been an odd day...I am not my usual 100% and oh well...it's this type of day on which I would just like to lie in my bed (preferably under my blanket), read a good book and eat tons of goodies...like chocolate, cookies, ice-cream...you know...the random 'feel-good'-food we all know...or as I always say 'mood-food'.

But oh well...instead I actually just THOUGHT about it and haven't gotten weak - I must say: It's also good that I didn't buy any goodies this week (it does indeed help a lot to go grocery shopping without being hungry). 

I made myself a delicious meal with green asparagus, garlic, mushrooms, fish and seasoned it with lemon juice and black pepper, and as dessert I had a lovely strawberry-kiwi-pear-salad. So in this regard I didn't get weak - I am still craving chocolate, but instead I'll have a nice hot chocolate before I go to bed later. It's a 'slight treat', but not nearly as bad as chocolate.

Writing tonight will do me good, I guess because it clears my head and gives me the chance to reflect a bit - I love writing, another aspect of my life that gives me pleasure. Travelling, writing, enjoying life to the fullest...

 

So yes, today is my 'rest'-day - no runs, no workouts, no yoga. I had classes, my office hours for the internship, met up with two good friends for coffee and then had to run a couple errands. My best friend's wedding is this month and I have to prepare her hen do - and there's still plenty to do - so instead of going for a run, I ran around town to get all my things together ;) Does this count as well?! At least it's still better than sitting on my lazy bum :)

I ran yesterday...and yesterday was great! I enjoyed this run so much - I only ran a quick one (took me about 20-25 minutes or so), but it was wonderful. I felt so much better than all the runs before...my feet were light, I felt as if my body was in a good posture (do you know what I mean?! haha) and I just felt as if I could have run the whole day. Instead I just thought "Why not run in intervalls?" - and I did, which means I ran a couple 'quickies' - meaning that I ran at my normal pace and then sped up as fast as I could for roughly 100m and then slowed down again - this was really nice because it made me feel invincible...even if it was only for about 25 minutes ;)

Today when I got back home from the city I saw two guys running (from outside the train) and I just thought "Mhmm, I sort of envy them now" :) And this thought astonished me...since when do I envy people that are out there jogging?! That was a new one - I could have run today, but I am taking my rest days serious - I don't trust me knee completely, yet, so I shouldn't overdo it.

I played volleyball for about 11 years and this has partly influenced my right knee, I am trying to train my leg muscles, especially the thighs as much as possible because it'll take additional pressure on the knee away. But that also means I don't want to risk a knee injury with overdoing it - I am still enjoying running, and I want to keep it that way.

But I still enjoyed the idea of longingly watching these guys...thinking it could be me! ;)

That's why I am looking forward to tomorrow's run. I've got to work again tomorrow, but I'll go for a lovely jog in the evening. My body has started to crave these runs - I am like a dog who gets excited when you wiggle with the leash because it knows that it's time to go for a walk...I just need to see my running shoes or one of my running magazines and I am stoked to take one foot out of the door. This used to be a problem for me, but not anymore...I'm quite motivated and have a good attitude towards this all - I am determined, and determination needs a goal - these things go hand in hand, but once they are there, there's no stopping you. I've been running since January this year, but have only gotten more serious about it since the end of March...a long way to go...but I know I'll get there :)

 On Monday I was very happy because I was able to book three of my planned runs (May, June, August are checked! In Dortmund, Bochum and Cologne)! This is SO lovely...it really made my day on Monday...so booked for the next months are:

[ 1) April 29th - Bochum Läuft Run (5k) in Bochum - Status: DONE :) ]

2) May 23rd - Dortmund University run (5k) in Dortmund, Status: BOOKED

3) June 6th - My university run (5k) in Bochum, Status: BOOKED

[4) July 8th - The British 10k (10k, who would have thought!?) in London]

5) August 11th - Women's Run (8k) in Cologne

Status: BOOKED

6) September15th - The Every Step Counts Run (10k) in Richmond

7) October 28th - Run To The Beat (21k) in London - Replacement will be added soon!

8) November - Still looking for one in Germany at that time - Suggestions more than   welcome!

9) December 1st- Santa Run (dressed up as Santa, yeah, 6k) in London 

The only thing that made me really angry/sad/frustrated was that my planned half-marathon for October was already booked out :( The only way getting a place is through a charity...but I am not sure, if I would want this for the first run...I don't want all these people's eyes on me during the run...or the pressure of collecting money for a charity...it might sound egoistic and selfish, but I am running for the run - because it's my personal goal...and just because I didn't get a spot in the half- marathon is no reason to automatically fake an interest in a charity, if you know what I mean. If I do a run for a charity I want to spend enough time with looking into all the details to make sure I know what I do.
 

I love the idea of connecting runs with charities and I know I'll do this soon enough, but for now this is just my personal struggle and I have to take this obstacle without anything else to think of - 21k alone scare me enough already. Does this make any sense to you?! :) I hope so. Anyway...and the British 10k is also booked out, except for the Golden Entry - my boyfriend and I'll see if we can get a placement with the Golden Entry still (rather today or tomorrow) - this run would be my first 10k and would mean a lot to me, so I hope it works.

I HAVE to run a half-marathon this year...seriously...this is my ONE HUGE achievement for this year...my boyfriend and I have been looking up a couple different half-marathons and we'll make it happen...it would have just been nice to take part in a big one like the 'Run to the Beat'.

It's a scary thing...I mean right now the longest I ran were maybe about 8 or 9k in previous runs...but this is going to be different - it's a challenge and it's not an easy one. 

My ultimate goal is to become a trail runner...also being able to run a proper marathon...then maybe even running an ultra-marathon...taking part in obstacle races...all these wonderful events where your only tool is your own body...it reminds me a lot of the philosophy of martial arts...to find back to the center of yourself, reaching your limits and going beyond them and being in total control of your body. All these people who have achieved this...they all started with a single push-up, a slow jog around the block, a couple sit-ups until it felt as if their abs were tearing apart...but all these people pushed through, kept going...and got to where they are today. I can do this, if they did!

So yes...for now I'll stick to my 'couple k's' and hope that eventually the miles automatically add up.

On Monday instead of my yoga-session I did a proper workout - full body! I am pushing myself into the push-ups now...my arms and my chest muscles are so weak...I am still on the 'womens' push-ups', just because my arms are too weak still, but I am getting there - side planks and normal planks are also on my daily list...oh boy these little flippin' exercises...but nothing feels better than having sore muscles and knowing exactly why you've got them...such a bittersweet feeling! Pain and reward in one :) 

Yeah, that's it for now...I just had my hot chocolate and feel a bit more balanced right now...I'll read a cheesy book in bed now and then it's only about 4.5 hours until I have to get up for work...so much for enough sleep :( It's SUCH a bad habit...but I'll have a quick nap after work tomorrow...it just has to do...if I could ever invent something I'd love to invent 48-hour days...or 'A bonus 12-hours', so you could push a button somewhere and you'd magically have 12 additional more hours to your life...wouldn't that be awesome?!

With this silly, but beautiful wish I'll wish you guys a good night now...may your dreams be filled with goodness that you may awake with a smile on your lips tomorrow morning!

Cheers,

your Janners

Runs end. Running doesn’t.

Hello you beautiful people out there :)

Mhmm, what a good weekend this one was! Time for runs, time for sleep, lots of quality skype time with my drop-dead gorgeous boyfriend, good food, family time! Life is delicious today :D

I am quite pleased with my slow, but steady progress. On Friday I ran 7k even though I was really in absolute NO mood to run (in German we have the term 'Innerer Schweinehund' which means 'one's weaker self' or literally 'the inner swinedog', haha) So I overcame that beast and went for one anyway - it was awesome!

I just thought I'd do a little 'jog around the block', but instead I decided to run a different path, without really having an idea where I'd end up (yes, believe it or not, but even after having lived 6 years in that town I don't know all corners), and I ended up doing a pretty awesome run - as I said: 7k - and it was more up- and downhill than I initially planned, forest-trails included. I even ran through the dark forest, maybe not that rational, but this additional thrill made me more focussed and eager to do this. I am becoming addicted to hills now...I love how much my body struggles, how my legs tighten and I just know that I have to own that hill - my boyfriend's terrific roommate keeps repeating the mantra "I eat hills for breakfast" and I totally love it by now :) So I am sometimes eating them for breakfast, sometimes for lunch, but mostly for dinner...and guess what?! They contain absolutely no calories...awesome! :D

And once I was home I was quite pleased how quickly a 'Not-in-this-mood'-mind turned into a 'Bring-it-on'-mind :) I am on a good track, I guess. So yeah...I was also quite sore from Thursdays workout...my bum, my thighs, my abs...daaaamn...I met up with a really good friend on Friday night and we laughed way more than my poor abs could take, I kindly asked him to make me stop laughing, but oh boy...didn't work ;) Sometimes it's good to be reminded that deep down there you've got some abs...they are just covered, haha...trust me, one day I'll see them! BOOM! :D

So yip, on Saturday I was half-dead...my legs, my abs, my bum...waaaah...whenever I sat down I must haved looked like an old lady...sloooowly, ever so sloooowly, hahaha - it didn't help much that I had to work the whole of Saturday. When I got back home I napped and watched a movie, after having had a lovely dinner. Lately I turn into a 'tv-cook' at any given chance - I get my ingredients out, turn up the music and then stand in my little kitchen-experimenting with what I've got, only rules: It must taste well, it must look good and it has to be healthy (e.g. lots of proteins, vitamins and fibre) - I am getting there ;)

Apart from that I didn't do much on Saturday, except taking some additional magnesium as well as devouring ginger (anti-inflammatory compounds and volatile oils help reducing the soreness) - I love my ginger, I am an addict! I must sheepishly add that I had lots of sushi with it *hihi* Yes, sorry...sushi is amazing! And trust me - as long as you pay attention to lots of raw fish like salmon it's not that bad...the only 'baddy' here is the white rice, but oh well...there could be worse than that.

I could have eaten a pizza...but interestingly I must mention: The more attention you pay to your food, your exercise etc. the less you want that food. I had 2 pieces of chocolate today (seriously...you would laugh, if you knew that there used to be times when I ate a WHOLE bar of chocolate within minutes...) but instead I just took 2 pieces, enjoyed them and left it at that. Maybe not such an extreme achievement, but I was surprised nontheless :)

So yes...that's a start. Today I took the train to my home town and visited my mom and my dad and his girlfriend - it was a lovely afternoon with quality-family-time and I really needed that - don't get to see enough of them. 
Once I got home to my brothers (where I am staying) I went for a nice, relaxed 5k-jog - nothing too extreme, but very rewarding.
It rained the whole day, but fortunately no thunderstorm (not running in a thunderstorm again, scary stuff, haha) - so I put on my running gear and took off, my favourite music in my ears and a happy attitude (wow...when did THAT happen?!) I even smiled throughout the run...seriously...people might get creeped out ;) 
I love the rain splashing in my face, washing away the sweat and cooling you down - I ran by the river, through the countryside and some fields that farmers prepared for harvest later this year...it was wonderful!  The air was fresh and clean, the rain so gentle and the temperature was just right, not too cold, but not too warm to make it humid outside. I love these kind of runs. I am a bit worried about my runs in summer when it's above 20 degrees...might make it hard for me *uargh*

And once I got home I made myself some delicious food - a lovely salad with whole-grain pasta, eggs, radish, rocket salad, almonds, balsamico and olive oil and fish - SO good! And I am still full, although it's been 2 hours ago :) A glass of apple juice mixed halfway with water and the juice of one lemon and you're good to go - no chance for colds this spring!

Here are some of my food experiments in the past:  

1) Ciabatta bread with avocado, kiwis and black pepper - yes you may laugh, it sounds disgusting...but this combination is terrific! Good fats, lots of vitamin C and we all know that black pepper is a goody ;) I added the bananas for a little dessert :) Good one! Easy and filling :) 

2) Boiled potatoes (with skin of course, best nutrition is in the skin, don't peel it because you'll lose the best part of it!) Chicken breast with spring onions, onions, lemon juice, garlic and courgette - delicious! Really enjoyed this one - you may add some salt to the potatoes when boiling, especially after a workout it gives you some lost minerals back.

 

 3) Tonight's salad, as I already described! Whole-grain pasta, eggs, radish, rocket salad, almonds, balsamico and olive oil and fish - I am quite pleased that half of it is still left, so I can have it again *yipieh* :) Good lunch-option for tomorrow!

4) Glass noodles, broccoli, shrimp, pickled corn, garlic, onions, fish, lemon juice and lemon grass - This was absolutely fantastic! Will do this again sometime soon, mhmmm!

5) Lovely salad with kiwi and strawberries...and as all my salads: Sprinkled with lemon juice! Om nom nom :)

6) Broccoli and brown rice with 2 nice pieces of wild salmon *mhmm* I can't remember exactly how I prepared the rice and broccoli, I am sure I added lots of garlic and onions as well (like I always do, I LOVE garlic!)

7) Shrimps, rocket salad, courgette and lots of other goodies - this one has been a while ago so I can't remember much of it, but yeah, I guess you've got the pics to check it out yourself ;)

So as you can see: Lots of yummi-ness, vitamin-ness and healthy-ness :) Maybe it inspired you to cook some good stuff as well!
So tomorrow I'll have a break again... although I might do another yoga-session - as much as strength and stamina are important to me, but you shouldn't neglect your flexibility... it's so useful, plus you just feel better within as well. On You Tube you can find a lot of useful videos - some gurus and some kind people put their stuff online and explain step by step what to do. Of course it doesn't replace a proper yoga- class and it's not the same feeling - but it's for free and it's a start.

My first yoga-class I did back in the States, in the community centre in Redlands and I loved it. The best part: One guy was so relaxed he even farted. Yeah, you can laugh ;) But honestly...THAT's how relieving it was, haha. You can relax, strengthen your muscles as well (depending on the kind of yoga you're doing) and you can stretch...streeeetch, mhmm, stretching is awesome, I love it! I never understand how people don't warm up and stretch a bit before they work out, as well as stretching after a workout, it's so important...but it's also AMAZING...your muscles go like "Uhhhh yeaaaah, that's gooood" ;) Love it! - So yeah - I would love to be able to wrap my entire hands around my feet, lean over with stretched legs and kiss the floor...these kind of things...a long way to go, but I just know how good it is for your body.

As I read in a nice article today "Yoga is the quieting of your mind" - and everybody who knows me, knows that my mind is a complete chaos. I would say I  have OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder...yeah, I get freaked out when things are not exactly in its order, even to an amount that I can't start any other project until I sorted out that 'mess' etc.) and I once explained my boyfriend that it's just the balance to my inner chaos. A control freak from the outside, but a chaotic lunatic on the inside...happens to the best of us ;) So yes, listening to meditation music, finding my inner self and quieting all these billions and billions of thoughts give me so much pleasure. It's wonderful!

 That's my plan for tomorrow evening then :) I've got classes and my internship office hours and then I should get some studying done - I feel much more focussed lately. Doing sports gives me this balance I need. As my boyfriend said the other day "You seem much more relaxed and happier" - yip, it does feel like it :) I've got a long way to go...but as the saying goes "Every journey starts with a single step" - and I did this one...and now I'm doing baby steps to prepare myself for the big leaps!

I hope you all had a lovely weekend as well - I am not sure who is following this blog (if any at all), but it's accessible to people all over the world. So in that case there must be a diversity of things, different time zones, different climates and weather conditions, different backgrounds and cultures...but we all have this one thing in common: We all have only one body to take care of, one spirit to guide us and one enemy to challenge (our own self!) - so it feels good that we are all connected in this kind of way - if you're working towards a better health right now, just be aware that you are not alone with this - it's inspiring to know that we all have the same potential to achieve something once we set our mind to it - so go and grab that opportunity! We all live in the now :)
 
With that I'll finish today's post and hope you will all have a fabulous start into the next week! Sending you some calm and balanced thoughts,

your Janners!

 

Yesterday you said tomorrow

Phew! What a day :)

You know you are unstoppable when you had a tough 8-hours working day and only got back to town at 6pm (leaving the house at 6am), but still get your bum up for a workout and a yoga-session, even if it was a short one...a short one is better than none and you still lapped the person on the couch ;) - Yes it does suck that I work in a different city, but it pays well, it pays the bills and it pays for my runs, my upcoming 'home-gym-equipment' including some sports gear I definitely need...wheeeew...lots of stuff to think about.

After a nice coffee-boost during a meet-up with a good friend and exciting talks about internships in lovely Indonesia I went back home and rolled out my pretty, little, green yoga-mat - such a beauty! ;) (For outsiders: I absolutely adore everything in green...my ultimate favourite colour! Nature, life, hope...it's all in a luscious green, mhmmm!)

I paid 20 € for this one, you can also order it online on http://www.energetics.de - a nice online sports shop in Germany.

I then whole-heartedly did a 30 minutes workout (abs, legs, back and core/posture in general) followed by a relaxing stretch-yoga-session to some mesmerizing Indian meditation tunes.

I trained with some exercises from the current Runner's World magazine (the German issue, May), as well as the current Women's Health issue, though I must admit: The Women's Health magazine is really a joke...if they posted as much stuff about workouts, nutrition and exercise ideas as they post stuff about make-up, sex-tipps and fashion it would have much more potential...with this issue I ripped about half the magazine away, then a couple more pages and was only left with about roughly 10 useful pages...honestly...not going to buy another one. The Runner's World magazine on the other hand is one I am considering to subscribe to even, lovely stuff in there. Motivational, professional and very spot on - for beginners and advanced! These guys are doing a terrific job - and no, no one pays me for writing this (although...guys...I wouldn't say no, hahaha). I just mean...even though (Wo)Men's Health is one of the most bought magazines out there, it's not necessarily the best in my opinion...but different tastes for different people. If you're into improving your running technique, training and skills in general Runner's World is for you.

So yes, no matter how many people whine about a workout BEFORE...no one has ever whined about one AFTER...it's simply the easiest and cheapest (free! *yay*) way of making yourself happy within a short time frame...just because your body is sending signals all over your limbs, organs and cells and screams "Thanks for being nice to me, you rock!" - and honestly...is there something better than treating your body with this well-deserved respect and honour? You only have this one 'shell' - treat it like a treasure :)

Today's little motivation was this picture:

 These legs....wow! I have a thing for nicely shaped calves...there's something about them, this intimidating strength - this power! Mhmm! So when I trained my legs this kept me going.

Today I also found out that I can do an additional run in May, which will be the uni campus run in Dortmund (neighbouring city) - it's 'just' a 5k, but definitely something to keep me motivated with :) And I might have found a run in September as well, but for now it can wait.

I'll have my next run tomorrow evening after work - I should just remind myself to work on my sleeping habits - I used to be so good, but due to being a complete workaholic (my internship, 3 shifts of work each week, classes, studying and then starting with this whole new lifestyle) I don't get as much sleep as I should. I can be happy if I get around 6 hours a night - if I am lucky between 7-8 - so that's the next big step for me to understand and to learn how important a daily dose of around 8 hours is for me - especially when my body is repairing itself after a good workout.


I have been eating extremely well in the past weeks and I learnt to change my diet completely - veggies, lean meat, lots of protein, seafood in general, fruits, nuts, whole grain stuff and yes, every now and then a treat...seriously...I am not a DIETING person...forget this crap. This body needs its cravings and I'll give in to them...as long as it is in control. 
So yip...a long way to go, but I am on it...I have always been very healthy - my immune system kicks ass that most people can be jealous of (the secret: Lots of kiwis and one glass of orange juice a day with the juice of an entire freshly squeezed lemon...wakes up, makes happy and is SO good for you!) and a happy, balanced self, but I still have to learn to combine working out regularly, getting enough sleep, eating healthy and functioning in all other 'fields' of life as well - a balancing act that promises epic-ness.
I've been neglecting a couple parts of my life, running on my ego-trip I guess, but sometimes I guess we just have to face these changes...and since life gets busy and you can't divide yourself into many parts you have to make choices...they are not easy, but in the long-run they have made me happy and showed me that I am on the right track to achieve what I need to achieve to prove myself that impossible things will become possible as soon as you put your willpower to it. 
And running counts as one of them, what really gets me is that the other day I was wondering who could do a couple runs with me, but I couldn't think of someone who'd be up for that :-/ (except for my boyfriend, but since he lives in London we only get to see each other once a month, which makes racing together only a irregular activity for us together) It's tough relying all on yourself to keep going, but I guess that's another reason why this is an ultimate challenge to myself.
There's a couple mantras I have been telling myself over the past days, just a couple words that have to return to my thoughts subconsciously...it's like training your body, but harder ;)
With these little ones I can stay easily focussed and remind myself that it's all about making the right choice at the right moment.
So with this new energy I'll start my day tomorrow - first a nice long sleep, then a proper breakfast, work and then back home to train and study. Might sound boring to you, but to me it's very rewarding :) 

I have no idea why I have been writing so much right now, but I just felt like writing a couple things down...sometimes it helps to clear your mind and to remove bits and pieces of negativity from your brain.
 
Writing can be as deliberating as running...it gives you a chace to be yourself and you will always get out what you put in!

With that I'll wish you all a good night, it's already 01.21 am here in Germany, time to hit the pillow :)

Sending you sleepy nightwishes,
 Janners

I hate it...no...I love it...oh boy!

Hello you wonderful people out there,

yeees, it's Janners-time, which means I am back to the online-blogging...so for all the people who aren't fed up with my talking and endless production of nonsense: you are more than welcome to follow me on my new adventure:

I am going to become a runner! :)

HA! Who would have thought, right?! Well...definitely NOT me ;) But to start from the beginning: I always hated running...yes, I still sometimes do...BUT...as with many things in life we learn to start loving something that we have once hated if we only spend enough time with it - meaning...put an effort into it and embrace something that felt strange, odd and distant...and you will soon learn that it's much better than you judged in the first place - ah yeah, the philosophical side-note...sorry, I won't ever get rid of these 4 semesters of philosophy I once studied ;)

So yip! I am quite pleased with this new-found motivation and I am using it as long as it's there...I can be so smart at times *cough* :) - So yes, my big goal is to run the half-marathon (Run to the beat) in London this October. My poor boyfriend Mr. A. is taking part as well, but I already told him that he should not wait for me :) I am just very happy, if I can make it through the finish line....and maybe one day I'll run a marathon...but that's for later. Let's start with the beginner stuff, shall we?!

My plans for the next months are quite challenging, but if it wasn't for these challenges I would never get my lazy bum up.

As soon as I got my salary I will sign up for a couple runs:

[ 1) April 29th - Bochum Läuft Run (5k) in Bochum - Status: CHECK :) ]

2) May - Still looking for one I might be able to do this month :)

3) June 6th - My university run (5k) in Bochum

4) July 8th - The British 10k (10k, who would have thought!?) in London

5) August 8th - Women's Run (8k) in Cologne

6) September15th - The Every Step Counts Run (10k) in Richmond

7) October 28th - Run To The Beat (21k) in London

8) November - Still looking for one in Germany at that time - Suggestions more than   welcome!

9) December 1st- Santa Run (dressed up as Santa, yeah, 6k) in London

I would love say on my birthday (December 9) that I have completed 9 proper runs throughout this year - 9 runs with about 70-80k of running distance, excluding training runs.

Yessir! Of course I am planning to run a lot of times in between to train, combined with proper cardio like swimming and cycling as well as some weight training (bring on these toned muscles, hell yeah!)

I am not planning to lose weight, naaaah - it would be a nice 'side-effect', but this whole idea here is pretty much to show myself that I am well capable of achieving things, if I want to - a practical and useful life lesson for the 'after-graduation'-period. My studies have taught me a lot of things, especially that procrastination is a beautiful tool...(if you want to consciously put stress into your life) and this lifestyle is unhealthy...I am all about the chilled-out atmosphere...finding the zen in my life, the inner peace and balance and doing it with a gentle pace, not rushing through life. And just being completely in tune with my inner and outer self. And running will paradoxically help me with it ;) (I'll return to the awesome feeling of running in a future-post - running can be so deliberating...mhmm, yummy!)

Last weekend I ran my first race - the 'Bochum läuft' run - a run for breast cancer awareness here in Bochum and I ran 5km with my boyfriend.

I ran a 32:02 for these 5k and even though I know it's not amazing, I am very happy about the result especially in regard with how little  have trained...

The best feeling was to run through the finish line knowing "Damn it girl, you did it" - I even passed a couple really fit-looking people...and this gave myself a huge (necessary) boost to continue with this new madness, wahahaha :) A huge credit goes to Mr. A because he's just fantastic...after having bitched at him a couple times during the run he still gave me a huge hug and a sincere "I am so proud of you"....he's a keeper :D I am amazed that he had enough breath to keep motivating me throughout the run, even uphill ;) He's such a role-model to me!

I should mention right away...I always hated running...I never saw a point in it...or as my dad once put it "If I want to get somewhere I use the car" (ehem, yes...thanks for the motivation dad...) Good that I don't have a car and don't necessarily ever want to own one...so instead: I run :)

Hillary Swank's picture is SUCH a motivation...this picture captures all that is important to me: Strength, freedom, determination, health, energy and the joy someone should have for life! I only wish I looked as graceful as she does :) Like a gazelle...stunner! And those legs, to die for :)

That's when she trained for the fantastic movie 'Million Dollar Baby' (wheeew, awesome movie, a huge, inspiring must-watch...go, grab the movie NOW!) Whenever I look at this pic I think "Where are these running shoes? Let's go...NOW!!!!"

Yip, and you can follow me through my failures, ups and downs, as well as my struggles with distances, training and above all: Myself ("I am my own worst enemy") - So technically...in the end...this challenge is not the run...not the half-marathon and getting my feet out of the door - it's a fight within myself and I know that I'll win against myself...oh my, all these paradoxes! 

So sit back, have some popcorn and if this isn't for you I'd be happy if this would trigger a mechanism in your brain to do the same...get some sneakers and get out in nature!

We were provided with the most beautiful gym already: For free, fresh air included, tons of sceneries to explore and no waiting for gym equipment!

Comment please and let me know, what your experiences are.

I'll log off now, put on my running shoes and explore my town. It rained a lot just before I started writing - a lovely spring-thunderstorm and this fresh air is tempting me now.

Always keep in mind: If you decide to jog it doesn't matter if you run a k in 5 minutes or in 15 minutes - a k is a k - and you ran it! THAT is what counts :)

I'll try for my 5k again tonight!

Sending you some motivated smiles,

cheers,

Janners