Jenn decked out in cross country ski gear circa 1970’s
I recently started cross country skiing again.
I skied a little bit when I was a kid, and in my 20s, but I was always much more of a downhill skier. We did many downhill ski vacations when I was younger, and I even taught skiing for a couple of years.
Now, with everything being closed, we have a lot more time to explore. I’m a huge nature lover, and a big fan of outdoor activities. I especially appreciate sports that don’t take up a lot of time or money. I’m very lucky that my Mom has several pairs of skis in her cupboard, and kept all my old equipment. When my kids were younger, I didn’t feel like I had the time or energy to go for a ski, but now that they are getting a bit older I’m able to have more time for myself. I don’t have any cross country skis for the kids yet, but they sometimes follow along on snowshoes!
Practicing yoga 3-4 times a week keeps me in pretty good shape but I’m definitely sore after a ski! Everyone feels it in a different place depending on their strengths and weaknesses, but there seems to be a universal post cross country ski sore hips, legs and upper back. Yoga complements every sport I do, it helps with mobility, strength and focus. I started stretching out after a ski, and decided to share a short sequence for all of you who are also exploring new sports and feeling a little achy.
Happy skiing!
Practice this 15 minute sequence after a cross country ski, to stretch out your hips, hamstrings and shoulders. It will increase you mobility, and make your ski experience more enjoyable.
BONUS: Mellowing Mulled Cider
1 bottle fruity, dry red wine
1½ cups water
Peel of 1 orange
Peel of 1 lemon
1/4 cup (60 mL) maple syrup
3 chai tea bags
1 tsp (5 mL) vanilla extract
1 piece ginger, peeled and sliced
2 oz dark rum
Cinnamon sticks, clove-studded orange & lemon peels, for garnish
In a large saucepan, combine wine, water, citrus peels and syrup and stir. Add chai tea bags, vanilla and ginger. Heat over medium or until mixture simmers but does not boil; add rum and taste. Reduce to low and heat for 10 minutes. Voila! Serve in heatproof glasses or mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick & clove-studded orange peel.