Nordic Skiing and Pain

Well this winter season has brought many forms of pain.

A simple fall, either because of leaves or white tissue paper, has brought at times, tears to the eyes. Cracked ribs are no fun. Some days are a bit more bearable then other times, but no matter, you can not escape the annoyance of hurting. No matter if you are sitting still and sneeze, working, or try doing a bit of skiing the pain is always there. Sometimes the pain spreads into 3 or 4 places in the rib and back area, grrr. Using your core when skiing, sure shows you how much the rib cage is stabilized. Suck in your belly button and that rib will tell you in a hurry, that it does not like it.

Another form of pain is racing. You push so hard, that you feel you cannot take another breath. Your body says back off, and your mind says go harder, go faster, and all the while the technique must not fall apart. Your mind says stay focused, do not be a chicken, as tears come to your eyes, ha! If you back-off, then you live with the pain in your mind, that you did not push hard enough.

Another form of pain is not racing. A friend the other day said she wanted to race this season. Due to family obligations and a new baby, she realized with tears of sadness in the eyes, that she could not devote the time needed, to do as well as she would like. With a mind to next season, she will go for long walks with her hubby and the little one. Many squats and pulls-ups, will be squeezed in, wherever there is a spare moment, at home.

Pain can sometimes come from the economics side. Perhaps it is some ski boots that should be replaced because they bang up your toe nails. Purple toes and pain, is more common then you would think. The longing of perhaps wanting a new pair of skis is always present. Maybe you want some of the latest clothing, waxes, and gizmo's from the Nordic world, that will have to wait.
That is reality.

Another form of pain that has come about this winter Nordic season, is the death of a dear friend. One that you have spent time with, skiing and cycling, among many other activities, that shall remain nameless. His love of being a professional photographer, has been passed unto this amateur, as well as countless others, including some of my children. Tears, once again comes to the eyes.

Pain is a teacher of life. Either we embrace it, learn from it, or try and run from it, but one way or the other, you will have to deal with it.

Go ski, with a friend or be a friend. Be at peace, in the wonderful winter-land this season.