Hello Readers!
It’s that time of year when skiers take a short break for the holidays and for some much needed rest before our next block of racing! This period of time looks different for everyone, and depends on a variety of factors, including early season racing or lack thereof, illness, injury and most of all, snow! I know, it’s been a grim start to the season. If you’re in Montana, you endured the ruthless winds and rainstorms of last week. If you’re in Alaska, you are likely bundling up for below 0 temps, and opening the door to bare roads and debris ridden ski trails. If you are anywhere in the east, this doesn’t apply to you, we’re all jealous, and I hope you’re enjoying your powder days while they last.
I am here to tell you all to keep your chin up, and to give you some pointers on how to soothe your snow cravings and have fun while doing it, while we wait patiently, that is.
Tip #1: First things first. When you bundle up in the morning to walk outside, close your eyes, open your door, and take a deep breath. Imagine a glistening blanket of fresh snow lining your doorstep. Imagine the soft sound of flakes falling from the sky, and the smell of crisp air hard at work keeping the snow weightless and fluffy. Say a prayer, and open your eyes.
*note* opening your fridge and repeating the steps above also works well in a pinch.
Tip # 2: pull out those classic skis you’ve been waiting to use until the track is freshly groomed and free of rock. Grab that Swix extra blue kickwax and a cork. Now with enthusiasm, wax your skis like it just snowed, it’s 20 degrees and sunny, and you’re getting picked up in 20 minutes for a long day of striding with perfect kick.
Tip #3: It’s a game. Agility is a nordic skier’s secret weapon. Those aren’t rocks you see in your path, they’re your competition. Weave in and around those rocks with purpose, all the while knowing you’re preparing for that moment you ski by your arch nemesis with a well timed sideways push and a lunge into the finish.
Or you never know... This could be your competition
Credit to Graham for successfully dodging a moose mid sprint qualifier.
Tip # 4: Channel your inner child. Think back to the days when you didn’t care what the conditions were. Rain or shine, marginal or not, the conditions were what they were, and you made the absolute most of them. At the end of the day, we do it because we love it, and because what is there really to be upset about when you have a pair of skis on your feet.
Here's some Inspiration:
Do your snow dances, and I’ll see you on the trails,
Emma
