Post-run recovery

“Rest is the sweet sauce of labor” – Plutarch

I ran 15 miles for the first time in a month today.  The run was at a very comfortable pace and the weather was highly cooperative, sunny and around 40 degrees.  I was back on the hills in Newton, kind of home base for training runs.  It was the first long run of my official marathon training plan.  Off to a good start.

Also impressive (to me) was the energy I had after the run to complete my list of errands.  In the hour that followed my run, I made it to Trader Joe’s, the dry cleaner and post office.  Check, check, check.  Perhaps the employees at each of these places would have preferred if I had gone home and showered first, but I was happy to plow through while I was still out and about.  I know myself too well by now, and especially on a winter day, it takes a LONG time for me to get moving after returning home, showering, eating and if I’m lucky, napping.

Today was a lucky day too.  Following my productive morning, a shower and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, I crawled into bed.  I started reading, just waiting to feel my eyes get heavy.  Ten minutes later I was out.  For 2 1/2 hours.  It was outstanding.  There could have been an earthquake and I’m pretty sure I would have kept sleeping. 

Researchers have shown that physical activity can promote better self reported sleep quality. I’m generally a good sleeper.  I rarely wake up in the middle of the night, and when I do, usually can fall right back asleep.  Even when I am stressed, once I fall asleep, I don’t often have stressful dreams, or wake in a panic an hour before my alarm, unable to fall back asleep.  

My problem is more often getting into bed.  My guess is the exercise helped facilitate my nap this afternoon, but a few extra hours of sleep during the week may also be a good idea.  I’ll keep trying.  However, when I have a Saturday that allows for a 2 1/2 hour nap, I’m also not going to pass that up.  

Me, sleeping on the bus ride out to Hopkinton last April