Day Seventeen: Back to the Cold, Back to Discipline

The Cold Start

Today Day 17, and I’m starting to reintroduce an old habit that shaped a stronger version of myself before: cold showers. This practice is more than just a physical challenge; it's a mental reset that invigorates both body and mind. I fondly remember how it felt to embrace the cold, knowing that with each brave plunge, I was not just bracing myself against the chill; I was also solidifying my resolve.

I woke up early and decided to start my morning with one. I used to do it for seven or eight months straight, part of the Wim Hof Method; a practice that builds discipline, strengthens circulation, and trains mental toughness. Each splash of icy water was a reminder of the power I possess over my comfort zone. It’s not just about the physical benefits. It’s about starting the day with control. When you step under that freezing water, every instinct tells you to back away, but you stay. You breathe. You endure. It serves as a daily affirmation of my resilience, encouraging me to take on challenges headfirst, even outside the shower.

And that’s what martial arts feels like too. The psychological grit developed through those cold mornings translates seamlessly into my practice, where every kick and every punch is executed not just with my body but with my spirit and determination.

It was refreshing, grounding, and a reminder of who I’m becoming; someone who thrives under challenge, not comfort. Each day is an opportunity to evolve, to grow and become more adept at navigating not just the physical training but the mental battles of life itself.

After that, I got ready and headed to work. The rhythm of my morning set the tone for a productive day ahead.

A Busy Day at Work

School was hectic today; maybe more than usual. I had a full teaching schedule and a lot of supervision duties. The students were more energetic (or unruly) than ever, so I had to write multiple reports. It was time-consuming, but that’s part of the job. As I navigated the whirlwind of classroom management and lesson plans, I reminded myself that each challenge presents a valuable lesson, both for me and for my students.

Even with all the chaos, I tried to use every free moment productively; editing blog posts, organizing my website layout, and doing quick martial arts research during breaks. Watching fight breakdowns, studying techniques, and learning about strategy has become part of my daily rhythm. I’m constantly looking for ways to integrate my passions and professional life, understanding that the two can enhance each other.

Honestly, I’m starting to see myself differently now.
I used to think of myself as a teacher who trains in martial arts.
Now, I see myself as a martial artist who also teaches. This shift in perspective is empowering and has helped me to embrace both aspects of my life fully. This realization feels transformative, as I begin to merge my identities in a way that cultivates deeper connections with both my students and my training partners.

That’s a big shift — a mindset change. This is the new me, and I like it. With every day that passes, I feel more aligned with my core values and aspirations.

Evening Grind – Muay Thai Monday

After work, I went home and took a well-deserved two-and-a-half-hour nap. Then came a good, protein-rich meal, chicken, eggs, fruits, the fuel I need before training. It’s crucial to nourish my body with the right foods, as they are essential not just for my physical performance but also for my overall well-being.

Monday evenings are tough because of the class times. There’s boxing from 7:30 to 9 and Muay Thai from 8 to 10. This time, I chose Muay Thai; physically demanding, but something I’ve grown to enjoy deeply. The combination of intensity and technique is a challenge that I wholeheartedly embrace, knowing that it enriches my abilities in martial arts and beyond.

When I arrived, the coach was finishing his kids’ class, so I used that time to warm up; light jogging, stretching, and shadowboxing. I appreciate the importance of a proper warm-up to prevent injury, ensuring that my body is prepared for the rigorous training ahead. Once the adult session started, the energy kicked in. We were about 12 to 14 in total, each sharing the space with a collective goal: to grow stronger together.

The session began with the usual warm-ups: Running, shadowboxing, punching, elbows, knees, and dynamic stretches; neck, arms, back, legs. Then came the drills. These initial moments are vital, not just for physical readiness but also for fostering that camaraderie among us, motivating one another to push harder.

We partnered up and practiced repetitive kicking drills:

• Four kicks (left-right-left-right) → run → switch.

• Then knees, elbows, and push kicks.

• Followed by a cycle of low and high kicks.

The intensity built gradually. The bag work came next. I partnered with a young student, new to the sport, about six weeks in. We geared up (bandages and gloves only) and started working on power kicks. It hurt, my shins burned, but that’s the point. That’s how your bones toughen up. Every impact is a signal to the body: get stronger. I remember the first time I endured this kind of pain; it was a rite of passage that I now cherish.

We alternated left and right low kicks, then added high kicks. The drills transitioned into combinations — jab-jab, cross, dodge, cross-hook-cross, then a low kick, and repeat. Each time we added more complexity. The final combo was brutal: hook-cross-low kick-hook-low kick. With every repetition, I felt myself growing more adept, not just physically but mentally as well, sharpening my focus and determination.

We ended the session with pad work; punch, dodge, repeat; and finished with core circuits and crunch variations. My body was drenched, my arms sore, but my spirit calm. I wasn’t just enduring anymore; I was enjoying the process. As I left the gym, I could feel the vibrant energy pulsing through me, reinforcing my commitment.

Reflection

Today wasn’t about performance. It was about discipline. Reintroducing the cold shower reminded me that growth often begins in discomfort. Work was stressful, training was exhausting, but I didn’t skip. I didn’t make excuses. This discipline is what fuels not only my progress in martial arts but also in my personal journey.

That’s what matters most, consistency through fatigue. It’s in these moments of weariness when our true character shines through.

I met new people, learned from repetition, and rediscovered a simple truth: Strength doesn’t come from perfect days. It comes from ordinary days done with discipline. I cherish the opportunity to grow in every click of the training clock, and the relationships I build along the way only enhance the experience.

I left the gym at 10, got home close to 11, grabbed a small snack, and took another cold shower to cool down. Then straight to bed; ready to do it all again tomorrow. My dreams filled with aspirations of what’s ahead, and a commitment to myself to continue evolving.

Day Seventeen complete. The grind continues. The discipline returns.

👉 Have you ever tried building (or rebuilding) a small habit that changed the way you feel every day? What’s one discipline you’d like to reintroduce into your routine? Share your thoughts and experiences together, we can inspire one another towards greatness!