Day 10 - Camille, Just Breathe

As with many commitments I have made before, the 10-day mark is usually the point where I start questioning myself and making exceptions. This time I know I am in this for 30 more days and there is nothing to question and no early exit strategy. I woke up early this morning, did my yoga at home and meditated. I thought about giving myself a day of rest (we are allowed one per week and I have not taken it yet) but opted to keep flowing even if it was a short home practice. I remain physically motivated but my mind has rebelled into a negative state and I have caught myself offering self-criticism and self-judgment about my yoga practice and expectations in this program. As in yoga, I suppose this is where I tell myself "Camille, Just Breathe."

In hopes to cleanse a little further and possibly lift my spirits, I will be going to the Communal Baths at Kabuki Springs this evening, one of my favorite spots in the city. Kabuki recreates the great tradition of Japanese public baths, designed to encourage harmony and relaxation. The process starts with a shower, followed by the dry sauna and/or steam room, usually in two ten minute sessions. Follow the sauna or steam room with the invigorating cold pool to stimulate the circulatory system. The final stage is a hot pool, but a resting period is recommended beforehand. In your break time you can always indulge in the bath salts, slices of cucumber and tea. As Joe put it after our last visit, you leave feeling like putty. I can't wait...