My Running... A Ban or a Sabbatical?

The riot act has been read out to me... 

I visited my Naturopathic doctor last week for my routine check-in that occurs every few months or so.  I enjoy going to her because I truly feel like I can connect with her and she has a genuine interest in my well-being.  During this particular visit, we discussed my constant battle with my overall immune system and why I seem to be getting sick too often to count in the past year.

On the recommendation of my Holistic Nutritionist, I had my urine tested.  The results were an eye opener.  Here is the short version of the results - I have severe adrenal fatigue.  Adrenal fatigue is caused by stress, lack of rest, and contributes to a lowered immune system.  

As a result, I have been advised to take a two month sabbatical from pounding the pavement in running motion.  My training is on hold for now and I will have to miss running the Boxing Day 10 Miler, and cannot entertain the concept of running the 'O Course' at this time either.  Heck, any military-type training plans I've had for the upcoming months will also have to be modified.  I will need to recharge the adrenals and boost the immune system before starting off again.  Thank goodness for cross training! I am now in the process of putting together a cross training plan that will encompass low to moderate impact activities, as well as lots of rest.  Just as well - it's cold out there! 

I will miss meeting up with my fearless group of runners and pounding the pavements with them.  However, in the interest of my health, I will use this sabbatical to reorganise my priorities and catch up on some long-outstanding tasks.  I also intend to reconnect with people in my life and learn more about myself in the process.  I also intend to empower others to take care of themselves through my teaching and coaching.  Hmm... I have a running clinic agenda to write out :-)

My runners will be back on my feet soon.  In the meantime, as my friend and nutritionist Diana has reminded me, I shall embrace this new reality and think of it as a way of building a new strength for myself.  The sidelines are not that bad if I can support those who are working hard!