14 Days of Forced Rest.
Prior to September the 9th last year, I was feeling the fittest I have ever felt since I stopped long-distance running (more on this in my next blog post). However, a torn Achilles on the 9th of September put a very abrupt end to my training routine. In fact, even walking is painful and I've found it really hard to find a training routine that is both challenging and kind to my Achilles. The pool is okay except I have to take it easy on the flippers, which is the section of my swim I most enjoy. All in all, it hasn't been a great six months in terms of the level of training I would normally do. Add to that a very fun wedding season and I find myself heading into winter not feeling as fit and healthy as I would normally be.
At the end of my tether with this injury I opted to try an autologous blood injection last night to see if this procedure can help to repair pair my torn Achilles. Fingers crossed. I'm currently sitting typing with my crouches close by and find myself hobbling around with the advice of being completely sedentary for the next two weeks. As hard as it's going to be I intend to follow this advice and give myself every chance of a full and a near new Achilles in a few months time.
With inactivity comes the importance of a healthy nutritious diet to ensure a happy mind and a stable body weight. The extra nutrients will also assist with the repair and recovery currently trying to take place.. As a result, I intend to amp up my greens and colourful vegetables and really focus on plant foods with a little lean protein and healthy fats to ensure I feel as well as I possibly can. I will also aim to cut back on those added extras (albeit healthy ones) and larger portions which aren't such a problem when you can move and exercise!
To start each day I'm going to try different combinations of vegetables and fruits in a smoothie to help provide extra vitamins & minerals. Light, delicious and full of nutrients, these will be my cups of morning goodness! Here is my first smoothie combination, a beautiful fig, banana and spinach smoothie. The addition of cashew nuts and chia seeds provide an important source of fibre, protein and omega-3 fatty acids to assist with feeling of fullness, healthy digestion as well as supporting reduced inflammation.
Fig, Banana and Spinach Smoothie
1 fresh fig, cut into quarters
1/2 frozen banana
2 handfuls of chopped spinach or baby spinach
1/4 cup cashew nuts
1 Tbspn chia seeds
1-1.5 cups of water
1. Place all of the ingredients into a blender and process until everything is combined. Adjust the amount of water depending on how you like your smoothie. I like mine thick!
Enjoy!
Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Refined sugar-free
