The Art of the Rested Mind

Squaw Valley, CA: Over many years of racing some crazy long events I’ve taken notice of the chatter in my head during races. I’ve found there is a direct correlation between positive chatter and how much solo “chill time” I acquire pre-race. By chill time I mean a compete un-plug from the civilized world. Remote place, minimal phones, email, computer etc. I’ve noticed that the longer the chill time the more improved the chatter gets come race day.

I decided to test this theory yet again, last year before the Western States 100 Endurance Run. So I packed up the Landrover and heading up to the Sierra a week before the race for some undefined solo time. “What WILL you do by yourself in the mountains for a week?” friends asked. “Nothing,” I responded.

I’ve realized the pattern is the same during chill time. The first couple days I was still fretting. Did I call that company I was supposed to call? I forgot to send that proposal I promised. Damn. Are my clients emailing me with important issues? Oh man. I need to connect, I need to connect!


Terri contemplating the
Western States 100 Course...

After about 2 days, seemingly important tasks stretched their distance from my brain and I settled into my basic routine. Get up and stretch. Go for a short jog, jump in the lake for a swim, make coffee while diving into my latest Paul Theroux novel, eat something, do yoga. Living out of the car and/or backpack made simple tasks significant. As the hours eased on, my mind became calm and focused. My attention had shifted from everyday life stuff to the battle at hand in a few days.

Four days into my chill time I was in full on warrior mode and had all but forgotten “real life”. I visualized the race course. Staring up at the mountains seeing myself meld with their test felt invigorating. The mind gradually created more space for taking on the unthinkable as if I were meticulously cleaning the canvas to white for a fresh art project.

Friends would call. “What are you doing with all your time, are you ok, are you bored?” they’d antagonize. “I’m resting my mind,” I’d reply. They didn’t get it but I didn’t feel inclined to explain. It all felt so perfectly sublime.

Come race day I was singularly focused. My execution was uncomplicated and I was able to attach to my purpose with ease. The result—a truly satisfying race experience.

I’m back for more pre-race chill time this year this time throwing in some specific activities to aid my cause—meditation and some poignant reading. I’ll let you know how the battle plays out.