Day 60: A Slow Start with Steady Discipline

A Late Start but a Calm Morning

Day 60 began with a slower rhythm. I woke up late which meant skipping my usual cold shower that really helps awaken my senses. Not ideal but still manageable. I ate my breakfast quickly, packed some food into my backpack, and headed to school, ensuring I had everything I needed for the day ahead.

On the bus, I completed my breathing exercises to settle into the day. The morning was unexpectedly calm and I had a few free sessions that allowed me to finish the last of my school tasks. At this point, everything is prepared for the hectic days ahead. All that remains is waiting for students to take their exams so I can correct them later. No more homework uploading or planning, which feels relieving. Only revision from this point forward, allowing me to focus on the essential aspects of my teaching.

A Tough Tuesday at Work

Tuesdays have never been my favorite day of the week. Today confirmed that sentiment again. After the calm morning, I had many consecutive sessions later, which can be quite draining. Students were tired, their energy was low, and getting them engaged was a challenge, but that is part of the routine I’ve come to accept.

My arms felt sore from yesterday’s intense boxing session, a reminder of my commitment to fitness. Every movement reminded me vividly of the effort I put in during that training. I kept thinking about the protein, creatine, and other supplements I ordered and how they will definitely help with recovery in the coming days. It's always important to be mindful of my body and its needs.

Once work finished, I went home, ate a solid meal that I prepared thoughtfully, and took a long nap that lasted about two and a half hours. It felt incredibly restorative. When I woke up, I ate again; nutritious snacks this time, and relaxed before preparing for tonight’s wrestling session. It was a vital part of my routine, and I was looking forward to it despite my tiredness.

Smart Choices on the Mat

According to my schedule, Tuesdays are supposed to include wrestling followed by an MMA session. With my rib still healing and soreness in my arms, I chose safety over stubbornness today. I committed to only the wrestling session, which would be less taxing on my body.

I arrived on time, a feat in itself sometimes. We were led by a student and started with a simple yet effective warm-up that included running, jumping jacks, sprawls, jumps, crab walks, hand walks, rolls, knee slides, and some stretching for the hands, legs, and neck, which felt absolutely necessary. After that, we paired with someone our size and carried each other across the mats while switching back and forth, a fun exercise that tested our strength and balance.

Then the coach took over and pushed us through a long series of sprawls and slides at full speed. I must have done around one hundred of them, feeling my muscles work harder than they had in a while. When the hour ended, some students paused for a water break, necessary after such a rigorous workout. I wanted to leave respectfully so I asked for permission and then headed out, making sure to thank the coach for a great session.

On the way home, I already felt the fatigue settling in. It was a comforting, albeit exhausting feeling. I reached my place, took my cold shower, which was invigorating, ate a light meal, relaxed, and allowed myself to enjoy the rest of the evening quietly, reflecting on the day’s progress.

Day Sixty Lesson

Day 60 reminded me profoundly that progress is not only measured in intensity. It is also measured in awareness. Knowing when to push and when to protect your body is a form of wisdom that keeps the journey alive in the long term. It’s remarkable how the body communicates its needs if we just listen.

I trained hard yesterday, and while the intensity was necessary, I trained smart today by making sure to prioritize safety and recovery. The goal is longevity, not short bursts of burnout. Showing up for each training session is important, but showing up with intention and a strategy that prioritizes my health matters even more. By choosing recovery when needed and effort when possible, I am giving myself the balance required to keep improving day after day.

Day 60 complete. Discipline maintained. Body protected. The grind continues.

👉 How do you decide when your body needs rest and when you should push through discomfort? Reflecting on this question can provide valuable insights for your own journey.