Ultra in Magnificent Julian Alps

The night slowly waltz in with gentle, naive steps of certainty. Late September air is comforting with trembling mixture of promise and nervousness, alongside of joyous tunes of Slovenian traditional folklore music, danced to by couples clad in traditional dresses to compliment marvelous occasion – the start of Julian Alps Trail 100 k category. Runners gather along the start line at the town medieval, historical center, and for a fraction of time become an epicenter of everyone’s attention. Radovlicja hosts the beginning of our journey. Anticipation is cut by ‘Conquest of paradise’ by Vangelis and countdown. With the word start, almost 400 runners embark on the journey.

Tension dissipates altogether with doubt and both are replaced by excitement from surroundings and early grind. All of us are guided out of Radovlicja, across the alpine bridge which we’re instructed to walk across, not to run. Once we hit forest we’re on our own. The nature opens up and greets us. Even though it’s dark and only source of light is head torch on runners head, all other senses seem to sharpen up, and the grounds and places entered bare magnificent, almost serious notion. Air swooshes through crowns of the trees, light breeze dashes along the path and only disturbance to silence is breathing and treading of runners. The first gentle climb feels satisfying. I have a wonderful time. It’s refreshing to be back on trails of running world. I can’t help, but smile. I feel satisfaction bordering with cockiness. And as we know what comes up has to eventually come down. No matter if it’s a plane, ego or trajectory of life, tests of fluctuations are unavoidable. I get to first aid station at 12th kilometer, brimming with joy. It’s pleasant to see crowd of people and bright lights. The tent is crowded and waiting time for refreshments is lengthy. I grab handful of nuts, chocolate and cheese, while my water bottles are being topped up. With thanks, I run into dark force of the forest, munching down leftovers in my hands. I’m light on my feet and my thoughts are getting lost under the rustling twigs and leafs, when suddenly left side of my face is splashed by fluid. As I don’t want to loose precious time I don’t elaborate and I keep on going. I wipe my face down and pat myself to find out where did the fluid came from. I realize that a little rubber in the nozzle of my water bottle came out under the pressure and is lost in the vast darkness of the forest floor. I consider to turn around and have a look, but I opt out of this option, as doing so in dark conditions when one barely sees ahead, and going against the stream runners behind me on narrow path would be waste of time, energy and risky. This means that water bottle won’t hold any water within it. Or it will, but while I run it will all spill out as the seal protection has been lost. Splendid. I’m going to face the rest of the race with one 500 ml water bottle. I try to remain composed and look for solutions. There are none.

By the time I get to second aid station in Kupljenik, 22 kilometers whizzed by. I got first descends under my belt on cushy forest floor, as well as an appetizer of rocks of all shapes and sizes, testing my shoes toe box. Supporters at aid station sing and dance into the night, encouraged by music blasting from radio and few Laskos (popular Slovenian beer). I have soup and crisps, cola to settle the stomach and electrolytes to gain lost salts and increase travel of oxygen through my blood. The plan to utilize my malfunctioned water bottle is to drink bit more at each aid station and to top the bottle up and hold it in my hand when leaving the station until I drink it. Simples. This is highly inconvenient and I’m certain that in latter stages it won’t work due to tiredness and having hiking poles in hands instead. I try and to at various stages whether anyone is in possession of spare water bottle or at least a cover to keep fluids in, but each and every time I receive the most unsatisfactory, two letter word that humanity invented – no. Never mind. I carry on and marvel about clear, vast sky, vivid star constellations stretching into distance afar, and how fortunate I’m to be in this lovely corner of planet. I ponder why would people go into wars if there’s such immersive beauty around us. The majestic power of nature. Dominant and humble at the same time. I find myself alone on path by the plane, separated from runners in front and behind. My mind enters serene state, when the shuffle of feet approaching from behind prick up my ears. Young lady dashed by with a brisk smile and focused eyes, followed by a chunk of a man with neutral gaze, and cheerful voice : ‘Hey man, you wanna hop on?’ Meaning if I want to join their running pack. ‘Why not.’ I replied dryly, separated from my reverie. Who would say that this was a beginning of camaraderie that carried us through the race and at different moments, ignites light that at times faltered within each one of us.

Girl’s name is Marta, and not only that she’s comes from Poland (as well as my Jules), but she’s also from Poznan (as well as my Jules!). As a team, we created a pact that we’re running all descents and straights, but hike on steep climbs. Marta is coy, pleasant and focused. On the other hand, Kris, who’s from Germany, speaks for all three of us. In Podhom, 32.5 km, I know Kris’ personal life in & out, altogether with his aims, goals and views of the World. He runs to beat this record and become first German to beat that record and run this in Germany that no other German ran in Germany in that time, anytime, ever. I admire his young tenacity. Blunt and boisterous. Reminds me of one fella back in a day, even though there’s just over a decade difference between us, but the gained experience and maturity is priceless. We plow on and get to Lake Bled, we round it and it’s a sight to behold. Even with low visibility caused by night, we savor the sheer beauty of the Pilgrimage Church seated onto Bled Island.

We reach Zirovnica, the aid station to be reached by 23:00, five hours ahead of cut off point. With 40 km in our legs, we’re grooving. We get into a sports hall with refreshments and drop off zone for bags with change of clothes. Kris changes shoes and applies ton of sun cream to be ready for the morning sun and the heat it’s going to deliver in the mountains. Me and Marta just chill eating soup, drinking coffee and getting mental frame right before the biggest challenge on this run, reaching Mt. Stol. Plan is to get to the top upon sunrise, but the elevation is going to be hard work, yet it’s only 9 km reach it. Another wave of electrifying excitement kicks in and we’re out to tackle the task at hand. Appetizer is a steep climb on asphalt path and then into alpine meadows. We can hear cows, but it’s so dark we’re unable to see nothing more that shades. As forest closes all around us, the going gets tougher, steeper, and then I see the headlamps of runners ahead of us, bouncing up and down, high, at the top and across the ridge, almost touching the stars. The climb is brutal and we barely walk. It’s a snail pace. Marta occasionally let’s it all out through massive roar, which gives me and Kris a push. We balance on steep, narrow paths with dramatic drops only step away. Trail becomes very technical and we start to become frail. Marta starts to puke, Kris slows down aching and I’m out of water and my feet on fire. Sun is slowly creeping up and temperature picks up. The entire climb takes us almost 5 hours and we claim the top all separate. All desperation and strain is swept away by the views that open up when we set foot to Presernova Koca. Triglav National Park is majestically reaching towards heights, over the valley below us. The peaks and Karawankas are waking up from morning clouds, air is crystal clear, light. I take the views in and it cheers my heart and drives tears into my eyes. Gratitude of the untouched beauty floods every inch of my being.

The run continues over Karawanks ridge. It proves to be huge mistake to think that once Mt. Stol is out of the equation and complete, the rest is going to be smooth ride. Mentally, I hit a wall and only repeat the mantra to myself of putting one leg in front of another. The trail is up and down, and views are breathtaking. I come across a refuge, where couple of locals are chilling and since I’m out of the water most of the times I ask for some. I get a beer as bonus and we chat for a little. They offer me even something stronger to clench my thirst, but I politely refuse and bid goodbye. I leave a little elevated, but still struggle to find a rhythm, to connect. I start to fall behind cut off time and my calculations are that I’m on the verge of succeeding or failing. I got to get it together, NOW. And then it happens. Julia sends me photo of finisher medals accompanied by text ‘Do you want it? Then pick up the pace!’ That seem to unlock my Pandora’s box. The brain fog dissipates and I’m able to tap into resources that I thought are not coming up to play. I picked up the pace and started to grind with one vision in my mind – crossing the finish line and getting the silverware no matter what it costs me. I stumble upon Marta again, and Ali, who I remember from start line. Ali doesn’t have hiking poles and uses two tree branches to support himself. When we descent from the ridge it gets easier over the macadam roads going up and down. Our group increases in number of runners closer to the finish line and as we approach last check point ahead of cut off time, I feel overcome by relief. We all start to have great banter and transition into chilled walk, or more likely a hobble, other than anything else even remotely reminding running or hiking. However, last 8k seem to be never ending. One more incline into forest, then onto tarmac road and back into wilderness. I feel like going in circles around Kranjska Gora. Then, out of nowhere, I see a bridge that I have recollection of when going Lake Jasna. Further ahead few twists and turns through picturesque alleys of Kranjska Gora, leading into finish line in it’s center. ‘YEEEEEEEEEEAAAH!!!’ I let it ripple through the town when I cross the finish line. It’s great to see Maris there, who came from England to run 25k, and is my pal, as well as other runners who I met along the trail. We hug all it out. The place is overrun by emotions mixed with tiredness and disbelief that it’s been done. The weight of the medal is the most gratifying feeling. Even more so, as with upcoming hours and days my body and mind unite to realize what it took to get it done. How little I was prepared due to personal obstacles during the year, yet grateful that I could have come here and compete. I’m shattered, yet over the moon. I learn from Marta that Kris didn’t finish as he twisted his ankle and was forced the pull out. Something tells me that this is not the last I’ve seen of him. As well as Marta and Ali. Great friendships are made on trails, in suffering and overcoming obstacles. I look around myself and I know that this is not last time I’m here. I’m in love with this place and Julian Alps, Slovenia etched into my heart experiences that are going to stay with me forever. Writing this article, I’m already registered for next year’s run. The knowledge of it excites and spurs me into training.

As Dean Karnazes says, ‘If you want run, run a mile. If you want to change your life, run a marathon. If you want to talk to God, run an ultra.’ And I relish close conversations with Him very much.

Stefanik Trail 2021 – The journey through Little Carpathians

The night was rather matured to care, and morning way too rushed to impress. The moon glistened high in clear sky above the hills behind, while I reached embankment of Danube river, majestically streaming through the heart of Bratislava. The final stretch. Over 5000 meters of elevation gain and loss tied up with 140 km of Little Carpathians disarmed me physically and mentally of any protests. Only few kilometres in front of finish line, here I was, almost outer body experience. I felt elevated above myself and everything that ever weighed me down. Surrounding sounds distorted and beautiful Bratislava became blurry picture. Murmur in my head repeated ‘Don’t close your eyes, and keep putting one foot in front of another’.

The plane touched the Slovakian ground on Wednesday morning, two days before the start of Stefanik Trail. Actually, I landed at the airport on the same day Pope Francis left it. Unable to catch taxi, Uber or bus as all streets around were closed, I inquired with the police, that was surrounded with cameras and crowds of people, when the filming of the movie is going to finish as I would like to travel to my hotel. I was told that this wasn’t a movie in making, but Pope’s visit came to end and he was about to arrive onto airport’s grounds and jet off. ‘Wow!‘, I thought. It was like Pope Francis gave me blessing for my run. I chuckled to myself and patiently waited for traffic to become normal. I was in my room by late afternoon, setting out to discover as much as possible about Slovakia’s capital.

My parents arrived the following day and we spent whole day together. After two years of not being able to see each other due to Covid, we made it count. We walked Bratislava’s center, both sides of Danube river and visited famous UFO bridge, which is the world’s longest bridge to have one pylon and one cable – stayed plane. The round restaurant at the top of the bridge, which gives it it’s name, offers magnificent views all around. We sat down and I explained the route for upcoming Stefanik Trail with ability to show some hills and trails from top of the restaurant.

The night before my run I paced the hotel room with various scenarios rolling in my mind. I didn’t run distances that I should to get my legs and body grooving. I didn’t workout out enough to build physical strength. Yet, I was certain that all of our experiences are challenges translated into mind over matter. Whatever we do, wherever we go mentally, we go physically and vice versa. Our mind controls and spurs our physicality whenever there’s demand for it. On the back of this I was confident I was going to achieve something extraordinary.

On Friday, altogether with other runners, we arrived in Bradlo – the start of Stefanik Trail. I changed into my running gear, prepped all the necessary equipment and went for a short walk towards Cairn of M. R. Stefanik, proudly towering up over tall hills stretched into distance. Here, I paid my respects to the Slovakian hero, whose not only inspiration behind the 145km/89 miles trail, but remains muse for many people in the nation. Suddenly, the final countdown was among us and over the growing excitement of runners and their supporters, last 5 minutes till start were announced. I called my girls who were in England to exchange few words over the phone, send virtual kisses and get some additional motivation. My determination grew exponentially and I was fully focused on the moment, but at the same time, nervousness from expectations hung firmly over me. I wanted to make the most out of every move, feeling, take in the nature and surroundings, physical and emotional pain when it presents itself. I said my prayers and started to count down last ten seconds with the buzzing crowd. The journey through Little Carpathians had begun.

The entire event consisted of seven main stations. From Bradlo to Dobra Voda we covered 15.3 km and majority of this part was downhill. However, running over the forest floor requires concentration as you run across tree roots, stones, rocks, uneven grounds, soft or hard and it doesn’t take much to fall down. As strange as it may sound, this makes ultra running the real thing. My head started to get into rhythm with my legs when I approached the first aid station in Dobra Voda. Stewards and fans rang cow bells and cheered all approaching runners. I love aid stations as they perk you up after a long time spent in solitude, but this time I just wanted to carry on. I was too excited, I felt so good, but I was aware I need to fill up my water bottles and get some nutrition so I can cope later on. I rolled toward tables filled with watermelons, bananas, oranges, lemons, salts, nuts, crisps, salty sticks and pretzels, all kind of bars and other sweet and savory surprises and mindlessly showed majority of it down my throat and washed it down with a couple of cups of Kofola. I was stepping side to side impatiently like a child waiting to open presents under the Christmas tree, while my water bottles were filled up. I staffed the bottles into breast pockets on my running jacket, expressed my gratitude towards the staff working the tables, looking after all the runners coming in and set out towards Zaruby & Bukova. This was 23.7 km long journey and I was well aware that one of the most unpleasant climbs, Zaruby, was ahead of me. When I experienced Zaruby for the first time two years ago I was simply mesmerized and I thought I’m going to spit my soul out. This time I did.

It didn’t take long after the aid station in Dobra voda that my impatience started to materialize. We ran through the village and I started to feel stir in my stomach. By the time I reached a little refreshment point in a local quarry I was gagging with disturbingly loud entourage. I drunk a litter of water, ate two magnesium sticks with some vitamin C and digestive enzymes and set out across the main road into the depths of Zaruby’s forest. By the time I hit the main climb and sizable rocks appeared in my way I was profoundly throwing up. I drank water, it came out. I ate fruit, it came out. I swallowed more digestive supplements, they came out. I couldn’t hold anything in. My run became hike, my hike became walk and once I got beneath the peak I almost crawl. I hung over my hiking poles, exposed to cold wind, shaking and immersed into my new thing – vomiting. Runners were passing by asking if I’m fine, offering help, but I knew that I’m passed the barrier and just sent them on with thank you. I started to curse and swing my poles around. I managed to get to the top. The wind gained on strength and lashed the summit. Nonetheless, the view was all worth it. Beneath my right side there was deep dark forest with it’s tall, old, wise trees stretching towards the stars and beneath my left there was white glistening rock with a huge drop. Beneath it, down in the valley laid a picturesque village enveloped by night. In front of me the path of rock and dense forest carried on. I felt weak and tired. I stepped towards the darkness when my mind started to play me. ‘You will make it down to Bukova and call it a day. 39 km ain’t that bad. You’re throwing up. You’re cold. You’re weak. You may slip and fall down the ravine. Come on pal, you have family to look after. Go to hotel, have a steaming shower, hot tea and go to sleep. Wow. Sleep. Rest. Take it easy.‘ The reasoning carried on until I came across the rescue crew further along the summit. They all kept warm around camp fire and were joyful until they laid their eyes at me. One of them asked me what happened and I described my situation and my nearly three hours long journey through Zaruby. After their short assessment, they proposed few options for me to get my stomach to settle and I took them all. Making long story short, I drank black tea, cup of beer married with activated charcoal and dry, plain bread. I sat close to open fire, trying to clear my head of doubtful residue. My stomach started to behave and my mind followed. Suddenly, I felt enraged by my earlier thoughts, so I got up and with thanks to the crew, I carried on my journey. I embraced the most technical part, which was the climb down of rocky summit to the next aid station, with a roar and joining in with group of two other runners. There were more kilometres of beautiful surroundings and searing pain to conquer ahead. Therefore, stopping was not an option.

People ask me why do you do such crazy thing? Why do you hurt yourself like that? And to be honest my answer is different every time, but core remains the same. We live in times of comfort and consumerism. We want to have and own everything with minimal effort, yet our potential is grandiose. People succumb for easy options, but consequently find themselves dissatisfied and broken along the line. Running ultra marathons allow me to tap into different mindset. Sooner or later, you are going to face a pain cave, that you need to get through. No matter how well prepared you are, it’s going to happen. The most important is how you react to it. And when you don’t quit the process that follows not only changes your life, but most importantly, who you are. Unfortunately, without doing hard things, overcoming obstacles, our lives are vanilla. And in today’s World, we’re hiding, shielding from problems rather than to take them head on.

Throughout the first night I had experienced something that I only heard from various ultra runners. Hallucinations. Physically I felt stronger, yet my mind started to trick me again. This time from different angle. I’m running between two ridges through the dark and quite forest, when two enormous stones in the middle of my way transform into turtles. Wow! I was really mesmerized until I realized that I’m tripping. This had put me into total ease with the task at hand. 90 kilometres to go.

Nature is such a beautiful and powerful remedy. Exposure to it aligns us with the deep calling inside of ourselves. I was enjoying every moment waltzing through tall grass, conquering rocky climbs and botching enormous trees on downhills. There was no sun rise at Solosnica this time as it was tugged in the dense fog, but I was still groovy. I felt such ease as never before and carried on in this fashion. When I hit Biely Kriz my eyes were opened. Not only that there were two dudes that I met on previous Stefanik Trail and one of them guided training program for 2020, which was cancelled. But also, while I clocked in for check in point, they told me that I got 2 hours to make it to next aid station before it closes down. That was 20 kilometres away. If it closed down before I reached it, that would materialize in negative hours on my score sheet, however, in my mind it meant that my pursuit is over. I thought if the station is closed, I have to give up the race. There was no way I would allow that to happen.

My dad always says, that when you feel like you have no more energy to carry on and you want to quit, there’s still over 20% of power to tap into within And it’s rare occurrence, that my pops would be mistaken. I started to feel like I would only begun the trail. My legs were aching, my heart pounding, my entire body felt the struggle, but my mind was relaxed and composed. I made it to next aid station in 2 hours, just before they closed, but my instep took some damage. Every time I step onto left foot it shot a painful sensation throughout my body and made me shiver. Altogether with one of the first aiders we applied freeze spray from both sides of my foot – to no avail. When I asked for something stronger, she told me that this is the best in the market. I gulped my tea and looked to my right. The Romanian runner, with whom I changed places few times during the race, was under emergency blanket shaking, proclaiming that he’s done. Now, that kicked me into another gear. I felt urgency of taking this to happy end no matter what. While I was putting my shoes back on and getting ready to head into rain, Marek, the runner I met at the station asked if he can join me. I had no issues with that as it turned into great running partnerships. Whenever I couldn’t run any longer, he started to go and pull me with him. Whenever he felt low, I would go ahead and got us churning. Even though we were going well, time was our enemy.

We were just around the corner from Kamzik with 20 minutes to go. Kamzik is a hill with 4 steep tiers. When you huff and puff through one, another tall one opens right in front of you. There are no stones, rocks or trees in your way, but you have cable cars provokingly dangling over your head. When we reached the plateau of Kamzik I yelled ‘Don’t close the station, we’re coming up!!!’ From then on, I felt like well oiled machine. My mind cleared, my body performed and I was crushing it towards the top. We made it. We filled our water bottles, crunched few bananas and watermelons, but there was no time to rest. Another station was roughly 20 kilometres away and we had no time to take it easy. The second night started to slowly set in. I changed batteries in my head lamp, thanked everyone at the aid station, as they are true heroes, and me & Marek set onto final stretch.

When you’re running long distance trails, it’s challenging to stay at the top of your nutrition without the crew that’s keeping an eye on you. As you put body under more pressure, you loose sense of taste and demand for food. You burn calories, but it’s hard to replenish them without being harsh on yourself. I got to the point to force myself to drink water. My mission to finish took over everything else. The following distance through Bratislava’s forest parks during night time seemed without the end. It felt like being in labyrinth going around the same nook over and over again. This time, my mind fed me visuals of Julia & Livi. We reached Devin, 128th kilometre. I felt like celebrating, but I was still 17 kilometres short. I sat down and drunk some water. My legs were completely shot, throbbing painfully. I knew I’m going to make it. But when I let that thought in my head, something else happened.

When you think there are no more hills to conquer, the opposite is the truth. My body and mind became relaxed and I was half asleep, while plowing through the hills of never ending vineyards and forests leading towards Bratislava’s center. At one point my eyes were shut, my thoughts elsewhere and my feet still going. That was something I didn’t experience before, but the sleep deprivation of 30 plus hours, altogether with the distance and it’s obstacles started to knock on the doors of my consciousness. I started to loose it.

Waves of Danube transformed into paddle boats filled with people. Everything went quite. Odd car on the road passed with no sound, only lights swooshing by. ‘Don’t close your eyes, and keep putting one foot in front of another’. I crossed the finish line after 33 hours and cheers with other voices pulled me out of my reverie. I looked around and realized that I had to leave Marek behind. A very kind lady shook my hand and put the medal around my neck. I couldn’t believe that it’s over. My eyes started to well up, when I saw faces of my parents coming towards me. My whole body was overwhelmed with onrushing pain and I didn’t know if to laugh, scream from top of my lungs or to throw up. I hobbled towards them and leaned on my pops for support. We started to laugh, while embracing one another. There was lot to process from this experience. Physically and emotionally.

The following days were filled with plenty of food and beer. I couldn’t sleep during nights as in my head I was still amid the hills of Little Carpathians. My feet didn’t swell at all and the muscular pain flushed away after 24 hours. Few things remained. I gained incredible gratitude towards life. I became more relaxed and whole person. I mean if everybody runs at least one ultra a year, there would less conflict, less mental health issues, less stress and anxiety. All those byproducts of modern society would be left out there on trails, in nature, where we belong and where we attune our inner self. It would also shut up our doubtful voices and stir us convincingly towards our dreams. We would become warriors in the garden, not the gardeners in the war.

See you on the trails around the world.

FOUR MILES, EVERY FOUR HOURS, FOR 48 HOURS CHALLENGE

The day was still at it’s infancy at 3:40 in the morning, when the alarm clock sounded with no mercy. Time to suit up for 10th segment of David Goggins’ challenge. My body ached, legs were shot and our home was warm and cozy. Outside was dark, cold and motionless. My head offered many possible and reasonable excuses of why not to go and run. And as I sat on the bottom of the stairs with one running shoe on and the other dangling in my hand, feeling uncomfortable in sweat ridden, stinky running gear, I thought about why on Earth am I doing this.

Few months ago I listened to podcast with Jesse Itzler, where he spoke about living for a month with David Goggins. Goggins’ rule was to do every day something that would suck. One of the concepts was 4 x 4 x 48 challenge. Simple. You pick your start time with 4 mile run, when you finish you rest and then run again every 4th hour. You carry on segment after segment until you reach 48 hours. Sweet!, I thought. I love Ultra running and I miss to be able to participate during the lock down, so the time came to it’s fruition and I decided that I need to do this challenge.

On the last day of February, at 16:00, I set started my watch and set out for round number one. I was light, feeling relaxed. The sun shined on, yet delicate breeze was making it’s way in, to most probably participate in latter stages of the experience. Welcome run was breeze and so were the following two at 20:00 & midnight.

On the first day of March I locked in first 04:00 o’clock run, where I started to realize that it’s not going to be that easy. Well, Goggin’s came up with the challenge so there weren’t any easy wins. The night seemed very still. No street lights on. There was no droning sound of moving cars. No swooshing by cyclists. None ruckus from motorbikes or mopeds. Almost nobody around, except few questionable characters roaming through the silence of the slowly dissapearing night.

Through entire process I kept it sweet & simple. Every time I arrived home after each run I had pint of water with Vitamin C and Rhodiola Rosea, followed by electrolyte drink. I had literally inhaled avocados, pasta, bananas and many other plant based, but processed carbs. Lot of chocolate vanished as well. At one point I clocked in even entire pizza! But I was aware that I lacked sleep, proper time to recover and on top of it I burn fair bit of calories so I was having a blast. I took shower after each round, then I went to read or talk to my Girls, or to chat to someone on social media. For about 10 minutes. Then I dozed out into the beautiful abyss of sleep. Restless sleep. I felt like a fish on dry land, bouncing from side to side in desperation to get back into water. My haggard muscles too inflamed to repair and my brain way too sparked up and aware of damage to let fully go.

Midnight run on 1st/2nd March was awful. Pure disgust. My stomach was unsettled and few minutes into the run I felt pang of sugar deprivation. My mouth went dry and I could sense pieces of dark chocolate hitting my tongue. I desired super chilled orange juice that I knew was at the back of our fridge. Ice cold. I hobbled on for nearly entire 4 miles with this picture in my head. I wanted this chocolate. I desired the orange juice. I hobbled home in anticipation of what sugar themed massacre was about to happen. Five minutes later, I was showered, tucked in with almost whole Bournville bar, complemented by carton of Tropicana inside of my gut. I felt sick, but my brain synapses were having a blast.

So here I was. Close to 04:00 o’clock in the morning, slouched on the stair, one shoe on, reminiscent and pondering of the reason behind this feat. Feeling genuinely sorry for myself. I didn’t want to leave. My thighs were on fire, groins were pulled, both legs shot. Probably the most challenging on this task was the constant ‘Go & stop, go & stop’. Run & rest, run & rest. The only thing I wanted to do was to go into bed and try to sleep. Maybe even intrude on my Girls’ sleep and just hug them. So what. They already supported me by preparing delicious and refreshing food, they retired into one bedroom so I can have bed to myself without any disruptions. What was one cuddle, maybe some pleading speech for compassion to cause. Then it dawned on me. Out of nowhere I knew why I was doing this. I didn’t start, because I had to do. I started, because I was thirsty for such experience. I got to do it. I got to dig deep. I got to feel tired and restless. I got to feel nauseated, but with eyes on prize, which was completion and beer.

I get to fight through anything in that this beautiful life throws my way and this run of mine was just to make me more resilient. It helped me to reconnect with myself on deeper level. It brought back gratitude towards things, experiences and people that I took for granted.

I’d rather have a life full of ‘Oh wells’ than life of ‘What ifs’. I was out of the front door instantly, slightly rejuvenated, with 3 more rounds to log. And so I did. It wasn’t glamorous. It was rather slow and painful.There was no clapping, no yells of encouragement along or at the end of the way. But that didn’t matter. Most importantly, there were Julia & Livi at home, with their cheers and kisses, meals and drinks, attentive looks and gentle hands, kind words and affirmations. Which was exceptional. Their support at any crazy dance that I choose is invaluable. There was indescribable feeling inside of me. I ended with 48.77 miles under my belt in those darned 48 hours. Most importantly, I realized that the journey is as important as the results, if not more. I don’t want or feel the need to prove anything to anyone. I’m only assured that when we’re cornered and we sharpen our mind to it, we can come out on the other side twice as strong. We can either choose to live our excuses or live our values and pursue our dreams. We can be our biggest obstacle or the greatest asset. The choice doesn’t belong to our moms, dads or any other relatives. Neither our friends, comrades, girlfriends, boyfriends, colleagues, wives and husbands, business partners nor cats, dogs or any other desirable pets. It’s entirely down to every single one of us, what side we choose.

PEACE

NAIVETY BY CHOICE

The realization of our own mortality should be our biggest motivation. Neither we have any guarantee of waking up tomorrow, nor we can be assured that we’ll be around in a year, five, ten or hundred. Once we grasp this fact, all the noise around will diminish.

The point is that I fail to understand how on earth in 21st century with all resources and information we have available to us, we’re willing to walk around with head down, complaining and crying how everything and everyone have done us wrong, therefore we can’t do anything about our life. Don’t misunderstand, I get that we all have different experiences in our childhood, which we couldn’t influence, but we’re formed by later in our teenage and adult life. Still, there’s so many ways we can change this. We can read books or listen to podcasts where practical advise is given for ‘peanuts’. We can choose people that we associate with, so our personal circle is healthy, supportive environment. Yet, we mishit the head of a nail. Why? Because it’s convenient. Negativity to us, human beings, is by default. It’s part of who we are. It’s the way our brain is partially coded, so it takes hard work to be positive, happy, accountable and emotionally stable. It takes work to live life, not to be consumed by it. It takes guts to step out of the line and do what most people don’t. When we understand that life happens for us not to us, and we take accountability for it day in, day out, we’ll stop worrying and start acting. Acting on our dreams and goals. Acting on relationships with other people. Acting on being fully immersed into life. Be mentally, where our feet are and not floating elsewhere in our minds. It’s continuous work that takes us where we want to be. Watching news on TV is easy, working on your mindset is not. But things which are hard are worthwhile and trans-formative. As Abraham Lincoln said, ‘In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years.’

I hope for our application of such Stoic approach. We must know that it takes personal responsibility to live by our philosophy. Information changes our thoughts, our thoughts change emotions, emotions change actions and reactions and positive actions over time change our habits. Change doesn’t come from government. It doesn’t come from using excuses why we’re not where we want to be. It starts with every single one of us. Our inner world creates our outside world. Therefore if invest time and work in ourselves, we’ll become better sons and daughters, better fathers and mothers, better husbands and wives, boyfriends and girlfriends, friends, colleagues and business partners, but mainly, much better human beings.

I may seem naive, but it’s naivety by a choice. Learn from yesterdays, plan your tomorrows, but own your today, because it’s not coming back.

Peace

WHY TO RUN

The day was still in its infancy and there was a slight wind with easily noticeable crispiness in the air. We ran around water reservoir, while my buddy stumbled across a certain topic. Why to run? Moreover, why to take part in ultra marathons? Why would you take yourself through such an ordeal? I had to rummage within myself to try to define, put into words these esoteric motions churning deep down. And so we took down on pace and embarked onto debate of ‘Why’.

Running is so many things. It can’t be pin pointed. It reminds me of poetry and poetry is life. It can be caressing and gentle; vigorous and wild, contemplative and wise, yet brutal and harsh. No run is the same and yet it fully depends on runner’s attitude of how he/she feels and views it; how well we can read between the lines. We all do it for different reasons, yet there’s one commonality. At the end of each run, you’re different person than at the start of it. The enrichment of one’s life by such profound, but simple experience is astounding. Can you imagine how the world would look like if politicians take a run before meetings and major decisions? HA!

Anyway, the journey of running has begun two years ago, purely for it’s undeniable health benefits. It continued so I can prove a point (only 2 people believed that I can finish ultra marathon without running marathon first) and it carries on so I maintain sanity, if that’s even possible. Running keeps me focused on what truly is important and how beautiful, yet fragile life is. It humbles my ego and makes my values louder. It’s not only physical development, but also psychological one too, as both fragments are inseparably intertwined. Dean Karanazes said, ‘Somehow we mistaken comfort for happiness.’ This goes strongly against what majority of society practices and believes in, however it resonates with me. I find that all the worthwhile moments, everything that consequently makes us better and enhances our lives comes out of action and overcoming struggle.

I have a job of twelve hours shifts, four times a week as well as the entrepreneurial journey that me and Julia are working on. Guiding our Olivia into teenage and adult years is responsible, fun and also time demanding. There are many necessities getting in the way at all times, which can be overwhelming and draining, but whatever the situation or time, when I tie up the laces on my running shoes…it all comes together. So when I stand on start line of ultra trail, I feel nervous, but so liberated. It’s only natural, that something is going to go wrong, but what really counts is one’s response. Ultra running is a celebration of re-connection with oneself and found appreciation that only now, this very moment, is all that matters. You can only truly discover who you are when you reach the pain cave, which occurs over time and distance. The way you react, creates you. Mind over matter.

So whatever is your niche way to move, keep it real and do it. Become connoisseur of life through the motion. And as I start rambling, I better take this to the end.

Peace, Love, Plants.

Awakening in ultra

The sun is slowly sinking into fields, its deep, dark orange colors playing in harmony with early summer evening. I’m in open veranda of my parent’s house, swollen feet buried in a bucket of ice cold water, body temperature slightly higher than usual. My throbbing legs, red hot tired face and frivolous mind are sending shivers down my spine. It’s a mixed bag of sensations. Yet, as I stare into sunset’s play, I grin to myself and feel on top of the world thanks to the reminiscence of past two days.

It’s Friday, 7th June, very early in the morning and after frantic sleep in Bratislava, Slovakia, I made my way through this picturesque city towards its center, where some of the runners were going to be picked by bus and taken to the Cairn of Milan Rastislav Stefanik on the peak of Bradlo, where the start of Stefanik Trail was. I was reveling in all the historical and architectural marvels that I had encountered on my walk. Bratislava Castle in particular, as it stands honorably on the top of the hill with its striking nonchalance and beauty, overlooking the Danube river and part of the city. Little I knew of its role and impact on my run in upcoming hours. But I’m getting ahead of myself a little…

After two hours journey we arrived at Bradlo. We had three hours to start, that gave everyone more than enough time to prepare – gather the starting number, GPS tracker, decide for drop bag spots, double check the gear, and mingle. I found myself a quite spot under the trees to change and meditate. I felt excited, restless and nervous. Trembling on the inside. Am I ready? Have I trained enough? I never ran more than 35k at once and here I am with 144 km ahead of me. How’s my body going to cope? Then I remembered all the people who said that I’m not going to make it, that I don’t stand a chance, which turned to be one of my biggest strengths. So when the time came, I made a quick phone call home to my girls, said a little prayer and lined up for the start, focused, with no doubts and ready to take on whatever may come. As Azara Garcias tattoo reads, The Devil whispered in my ear: ‘You’re not strong enough to withstand the storm.’ I whispered back: ‘I am the storm.’ 3, 2, 1, boom! Off we go.

The 15.2 k to first aid station in Dobra Voda was for majority of time downhill on uneven forest floor, quickly paced and with all starting pack tight together. As we ran into Dobra Voda people were standing in front of their houses, clapping, tolling bells and cheering us on. When we arrived at aid station I was taken back by kindness and helpfulness of volunteers. I got my water bottles refilled, while I munched on some water melon, oranges and nuts. I left within few minutes impressed by the experience so far. However, there was one little thing that started to worry me. I noticed that everyone was using trekking poles and had shoes with a gripping soles, ready to take on the off road track. I had no poles and Nike Zoom with no grip whatsoever. But I didn’t want worry and didn’t pay much attention to such a slight detail. I was enjoying every single sight, every single stride, every single breath. But I was about to learn my first lesson.

We were leaving the tarmac road and entering the forest, when the sun started to set. Golden colors seeped through lines of trees and I was hyped from endorphins, thinking that this might be pretty easy ride. Then the first serious climb presented itself. Bukova. The highest hill of Little Carpathians. Massive trunks of fallen trees over the path were obstacles I didn’t pay much attention to. When I started to touch the floor with my hands while climbing up and the forest floor was lined by protruding slippery rocks, it slowly dawned on me how much did I underestimated the choice of shoes. And why the heck didn’t I take them darn poles?! Darkness of the night swallowed everything and this 768 m climb turned into first real test. I felt sick and was close to throw up. My heart was pounding, head spinning, while I was reminding myself why I’m doing this. I wanted to curse, but had no energy. I thought that I’m done. I wanted to make it to upcoming aid station/check point and quit. Then I hit the top of the hill. Wind started to pick but the view that had opened in front of me was to die for. The hills in deep sleep, caressed with the lights from little village tucked down in the valley, made this climb all worth it. I took a deep breath to start treading cautiously over the rocky terrain and begin descending towards Bukova at 38.6 km. At times I felt like on ice, slipping on the surface plummeting into trees. I made it down and I was so grateful to see light of the tent with refreshments. I clocked myself and started to eat. I literally swallowed a couple of cups of vegetable soup, then I continued with fruits, chocolate, salt, cheese(yes, I had cheese), but I was in a survival mode. I showed everything down my face like there was no tomorrow. I sat down to wash it all down by a cup of Kofola and took my supplements, when I noticed one of the runners on the ground, shaking under emergency survival blanket. Emergency arriving. This shit is real. I got up and thought to myself that I have never quit anything worthwhile no matter what happened and this is not going to be the case. I was relieved that the gentlemen now moved into Emergency vehicle and was taken good care of, while I started to trot ahead. Next stop was going to be Solosnica at 56.2 k. Rock on.

This climb took me the rest of the night. I met and chatted with some incredible people on my way. After feeling raw, weak and bare at Bukova, I endeavored the entire stage three. Once again at the top of Vapenna, at 752 m, I was mesmerized by the views. Small Carpathians were opening up and slowly waking up with lazily rising sun. The hills still and covered by morning mist. For a moment I felt like everything would stop. There was no time. Nowhere to be. It was here and now. When I arrived to Solosnica I had vegan pasta with lots of vegetables, water melon as per usual, and beer. I felt immense gratitude. There was no pain, no aching. Just me observing the hill that I had descended bathing in morning sun, while I feasted.

Into the forest again, onto another climb. First few kilometers were through the village, then the brutal climb begun. It was never ending steepness. When I got to top of one hill, another would majestically present itself. My calves were on fire. I ate too much in Solosnica and felt like I’d rather roll down then to push myself up. The floor was rocky, uneven, full of nettles, mosquitoes swarmed around like they hadn’t eaten in ages. When I got to flatland I couldn’t get running. My feet were heavy. My private parts were burning from rubbing and I had to yank my underwear forward to separate my butt cheeks. It helped a bit, but didn’t take the hurt and discomfort away. All dignity gone. I walked. I hurt. I hit the wall. After about 20 kilometers, it’s getting down from one hill onto the top of another. I was desperate. I sent voice message to Julia. She replied with, ‘NO MORE BITCHING CLIMBS!’ Suddenly I felt rush of fresh blood pulsing through my body, eyes wide open. Not considering entire distance, which is left, but concentrating on next kilometer, and then next kilometer and then next. I pictured my girls, Livi & Juls, I felt the medal around my neck for finishing the trail. It’s going to be nasty, but I’ll grind it out. I’ll bring that medal home! Few tears crawled down my face, but with that I also began to run. These hills are going to make me, not brake me! I got to Penzinska Baba at 79.3 km. I had soup and Kofola. Not feeling hungry nor any appetite, so I washed down some Vitamin C, CalMag D, Calcium and Rhodiola supplements with small beer. I was so tempted to take off my shoes, but I was afraid of what would had followed. Maybe my toenails were peeling off? Or maybe my feet were so swollen that I couldn’t put shoes back on? I left them on and looked around. Everybody was jolly. Spirits were running high.

I felt twinge of sadness to leave check point, but I had still quiet a distance to cover and couldn’t afford to loose anymore time. Everything seemed to go smooth. I clocked in some reasonable times, I felt strong repeating my mantra. One stride after another. Kilometer after kilometer. Grinding it out. The flow was good and I started to feel that I got my mojo back. By my calculations at 8 PM I should had been in finish line celebrating with my parents and sister. Exactly 25 hours after start. No stopping me now. Then 95th kilometer came. I started to feel anguish in between subtalar joint and ankle joint. Run turned into walk, walk became hobble. Following 10 k took me three hours! I was falling behind. Doubt of not finishing was growing on me. When I got under Kamzik I started the climb which was divided into three parts. The pain was excruciating, but I could deal with that. What drove me crazy was that I couldn’t run. I muster all my strength and kept on plodding. I got to the check point at Kamzik, 107.6th k, just before they closed it. ‘Medic, I need medic and painkillers!’ I yelled. I knew that if wouldn’t feel the pain, I could finish. Medic arrived and told me that I can’t be given painkillers, however she could cool it with spray and apply ice. I refused all food. My mind was pushing to go. Amazing volunteers read the situation well and ‘bothered’ me so long until they got some melon and bread down me, while medic was sorting out my foot. One of the ladies come down to me with the medal for finishers around her neck, ‘Do you want it?’ she inquired. ‘Of course!’ I said. ‘Then go and get it!’ she smiled. I got up and made few steps, pain was gone. It worked. These two women had saved my run, literally. I moved ahead towards Devin. I started to rush, so I tripped and fell couple of times. Didn’t bother me. I got lost in the woods, when night settled in. Didn’t bother. I’m going to make it no matter what!

I got to Devin, 127th km, around 11 PM. I had four hours left to finish. I ate some fruits, chocolate and drunk a cup of beer. Got my foot sprayed and I was on my way in about 15 minutes. The last part seemed to take forever. My legs, back, arms, shoulders hurt as hell, but my mind was fresh. I never felt such clarity. I met two other runners in the woods and we kept each other company until we entered Bratislava, there we split. I run along Danube for few kilometres, then crossed onto embankment, where Stefanik’s statue is. The finish was at the end of fingertips. Out of nowhere two smiling gentlemen stopped me. ‘Secret check point. If you clock in and then carry onto the stairs leading to Bratislava Castle, then around and down to finish. Don’t worry it’s just about 5 km to go. Well done and enjoy!’ My heart sunk. After all these hills, climbs and descents, here was another one. I took deep breath and went for it. The ascent towards castle wasn’t too bad, but going downhill was a different story. My eyes welled up and I cried and laughed at the same time, my legs giving way, but my mind was urging me on. I got to embankment and started to clumsily gallop towards the finish. Around 2.30 AM, 9th June, I made it through the finish line so exhausted that I didn’t even recognized my dad greeting me there. My quads, hamstrings, thighs and chins were burning. I sat down and at one point I thought I was about to collapse. Pops helped me back up. I could barely stand. We started towards our hotel, where my mum and sister slept. We talked and laughed as dad supported me whole way as I limped alongside like hurt animal.

A lot of runners didn’t finish. I ended up 120th. Last one from those who did. To my consolidation, organizers needed 120 runners to finish in order for Stefanik Trail to become qualifying ultra marathon for Western States 100. I was the 120th.

As I sit here, drinking a beer and eating salty crisps with avocados, while my parents are chatting away. I smile. Sunset is on my face and I think of Livi & Juls. I think of all those runs I didn’t want to do, but I did. I think of health issues that I overcame and changes I implemented. I think of all those people who doubted and thought it impossible for me to make it. And I think of all those who fight for their dreams, those who get knocked down over and over, but get up again and persevere. Those hills in Little Carpathians taught me that no matter how fucked situation is, if you know why you’re doing what you’re doing, and never give up and keep on pushing, you can achieve whatever you desire. I squeeze the medal, which has been dangling around my neck for past 24 hours, and feel the burn to do more. To live life more intentionally and be more present, but mainly to keep on going and pursue my dreams.

Peace, Love, Plants.

The Protein Noise

Probably the most asked question and myth around Plant-powered diet is about our favorite macro nutrition, protein. ‘How can you possibly get enough protein when you do not eat meat and diary?‘ I too was concerned about this element at the start of my Plant-powered journey, however, I found out that the contrary is true.

We live in times in which we are possessed by protein consumption. ‘Proteinaholic’ by Garth Davis, MD , presents us with an evidence – based case of why such an obsession for protein, meat protein in particular, takes place and makes us ill, fat and tired. The fact is that whether you are an athlete or a couch potato the copious amounts of meat protein are not going to do you any good. The animal protein is a circus of factory farmed, hormone and pesticide fueled, low in fiber foods that are extremely high in saturated fat.

However, let’s not be mistaken. Protein is essential nutrient. It is not only critical to repair or build muscle tissue, but its role in wide range of important body functions is crucial. So does it make really any difference if our protein comes from meat or plants? And how much do we need?

Protein consists of twenty different amino acids. Eleven of which can be naturally produced by our bodies. The remaining nine, that are called essential amino acids, must be derived from foods that we eat. From technical point of view, we require certain amino acids, not protein in itself. In spite of that, these nine essential amino acids are not available only from animals. Actually, they are synthesized by plants and found in meat and dairy products just because these animals have eaten plants. In fact, they are found in bountiful amounts in a wide variety of grains, nuts, seeds, vegetables and legumes. So in common sense, if your diet contains well rounded variety of these plant based foods, it is impossible for our bodies to be deficient in ability to properly digest all the proteins it needs for correct tissue maintenance and repair.

Let’s just skip the fact that most people procure their protein consuming animal foods, which tend to contain a whole shebang of unhealthy byproducts. On the other hand, with Plant-power diet, one needs to obtain the nine essential amino acids from plant based foods, which are digested much easier and processed differently by our bodies from animal based proteins. Now, let’s get nitty gritty here. Recommended daily allowance (RDA) is 0.8 grams per kilogram of protein. Meanwhile, studies show that the requirements of the athlete don’t exceed RDA recommendation. The World Health Organisation even recommends that men and women only need 5 percent calories as protein, which is a half of RDA amount. And still, most of the people, of whom are mainly sedentary, manage to have intake 2 – 5 times higher than RDA.

‘So how do I get protein that I need without animal foods?’ Simple. If we spread it over a course of the day, having a homemade green smoothie and toast with peanut butter for breakfast, bean salad with quinoa for lunch and lentils, edamame beans, barley, tofu and spinach and broccoli is going to take you where you need to be. And to really hit the nail on it’s head, even if you would eat nothing else than variety of fresh fruits, you still would not suffer protein deficiency nor missing out on particular amino acid. Even though eating only fruits is a little bit extreme, but enjoy diet of legumes, grains, seeds, nuts, fruits and green vegetables throughout the day and there is no way that you are not going to meet your daily requirements of essential amino acids.

On the days when I train and feel fatigued, travel a lot, or when I didn’t eat enough plant based foods high in protein, I do include a small amount of plant based protein powder in my smoothie as a safeguard. Personally, I use Nutrilite All Plant Protein, which is organic, made from soy, wheat and peas. They can actually trace all the nutrition from the product to its very origin as a seed in a soil, as well as time and date when it’s been planted, harvested and turned into a supplement. And I started to include spirulina in my green smoothies. It is a fresh water algae phytonutrient super food, which boosts protein content of 60 – 65 percent by weight.

With respect to all athletes and people of all possible activities, I could not find a scientific study, which would show that protein consumption beyond RDA advised minimum, helps additional growth nor physiological repair induced by exercise stress. On the other hand, there are numerous studies proving that excess protein intake from animal based sources can significantly contribute to set in motion a variety of diseases such as osteoporosis, cancer, kidney malfunction as well as heart disease.

Proteins found in milk are not only packed with hormones, as they meant to serve as feed for baby kettle, but also high in casein, which can be a huge contributor to several maladies, including cancer. What makes me sick as well as admire the industry for their genius is invention of whey protein. Whey is nothing less than a low grade, highly processed discard of cheese production. The diary industry created billion dollar business out of stuff that had been previously tossed into unwanted rubbish. Yet, many stores sell these giant cans with packed up muscle man on its cover in bulk for ridiculous money, when its value production as well as nutrition wise is worth nearly big fat nothing.

The protein craze is over hyped and harmful. Why instead of steak, chicken, eggs, milk and whey supplements not to try plant based sources such as black or kidney, and many other beans, Brazil nuts, almonds, legumes, linen, chia or hemp seeds, spirulina or tempeh.

And if you are still unsure, consider this . The most ferocious animals on the planet like an elephant, gorilla, rhino and hippo, they all get their protein from plants, one hundred percent of it.

Peace & Love

 

No need for meat

Today marks four weeks since me and my wife have decided to reduce meat from our diet and eat only plant based food, diary and fish. I can’t believe that I actually say that, but the results are incredible! I used to be a huge ‘meat eater’ – chicken, beef, pork – the complete shebang. If there wasn’t meat on my plate than it wasn’t a proper meal. However, being able to work closely with nutrition and dietary specialists helping my clients to better their health and general well being made me rethink many aspects of my own life. That, and Julia – my wife – has a great impact.

First of all, most of my clients have had serious health complications such as thyroid disorder, issues with metabolism, weak immune system, diabetes etc. Through elementary hair analysis we are able to asses the nutrition levels of organism based on quantity and ratio of  elements in hair. This modern diagnostic tests the level of the most important elements in the human body – 24 bio-elements and 5 toxic elements. Based on the results, we are able to draw up an appropriate supplementation and diet program.

When I have done my own elementary analysis, and suited my diet to the nutritional needs of my organism, it helped me tremendously. However, it’s now when I fully control what I eat, that makes me more fulfilled and happy. The realization that the gut is a second brain was crucial. Our brain is actually constantly communicating with the gut by countless chemical reactions. Our decision not to eat meat is based on difficulty to obtain quality and high standard. The process and sustainability of farming, mainly thanks to the supermarkets, is very close to non existent. Add martyrdom which animals go through by being overfed with compound feed, little movement and being slaughtered in a mechanical fashion just to satisfy the demand which have been created and you have a perfect outcome for disaster.

Secondly, it was the knowledge gained by my wife, which didn’t make me hesitate to apply these changes. Her creativity with recipes is astounding me every day. I mean how can you pimp up vegetables into a something comparable to fine dining?! As I mentioned earlier, we still consume fish and dairy, but we certainly choose where it comes from and the way it had been produced. The same regards supplements and many other factors which surround us as a consumers and are a necessity for ones being. If it’s well or bad being, that’s all down to us.

I would have never said that one day I’ll be writing and talking about such topic, which can easily develop into cause, but I take it as my responsibility to share something that had put a spring into my step. And if it’s a ONE person, who is going to take something away from it, and finds it helpful in one way or another, then that’s what makes me buzz.

Cheers & Love

 

Transcend

The air started to get crisp yet again, as I walked our daughter Olivia from her Taekwondo lesson. While being immersed into conversation with Livi, I had noticed one of the moms giving a pep talk to her child about what he was doing wrong and why he should improve. It kind of dawned on me, that we are all trying to motivate and teach. We live in the age where everybody is a motivator. We adore motivation and even more we love the feeling of being motivated. Countless hours are spent by people searching you tube channel for motivational videos. I personally attend a business development seminars every month, at least three conferences during a year and I can guarantee that I will do so even more frequently in the future. However, there is one little difference. I do not search for motivation, because I’m self motivated. I know why I’m doing what I’m doing. All I need, and where the difference lays is inspiration. Let me explain the fine line between the three elements.

Vast majority of people is going mindlessly day in and day out in the same rhythm of waking up, going to work, coming home, eat, watch TV, sleep and back to the beginning of the loop. The only distraction of this pattern is the weekend, where we load ourselves with alcoholic beverages, watch even more TV and tell ourselves that overall it is not that bad. Until Monday comes. We feel tired and it is a beginning of the week! How long can you stay in such a state? We cannot be surprised that mental health problems are growing public health concern. Mixed anxiety and depression being the most common mental health disorder in Britain. These are consequences, which we should’t ignore by only supplying antidepressants, pills and tablets. Medications tend to help instantaneously, but can be disastrous in a long run as they do not tackle the root of the problem. Therefore motivation, online coaches, mentors are being so high in demand as we are looking for ways to get out of the rat race and improve our well being. Having said that, I do not believe that motivation is purposeful, if it is portrayed onto people rather that inspiring them to develop self motivation within them in order to take action. It feels great to be fired up by someone, but the motivation tends to fizzle out in couple of days and if we don’t take action straight away we go back to square one. Don’t get me wrong, it is a completely different scenario in sports, where ignited motivation by a head coach, manager or players can be all the difference as it is instantaneous strive for result. On the other hand it doesn’t work in same measures long term as in improving ones life for example.

Most important key to taking control of our life is in self awareness. Realize who you are – what are your strengths and double, triple, quadruple into developing them to create and fuel your passion. Comprehend your weaknesses, but do not dwell into them, because most of the people around you are going to do that for you.

The moment we gain clarity about our personal nature and what we are passionate about, we become clear on our self motivation – our drive and desire. That’s exactly the ingredients, that is going to get us up early in the morning and do what needs to be done till late in the night.  When we surround ourselves with people, who are successful by making a huge impact in sector or industry that we want to make our mark in, we can consume the information that they share and apply it. Practicality is the main difference between being motivated and being initiator. We have our desire and we are inspired to act by someone who is walking the walk, not only talking the talk. That’s the reason for me to advocate inspiration. When we add desire, altogether, it transcend any kind of motivation.

As Milton Berle, an American comedian and actor, whose career spanned for incredible 80 years once said, ‘If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.’ So don’t look for motivation. Be inspired instead. Be practical and act upon your ambitions. Let’s do what we need to do.

 

Cheers & Love

 

 

 

 

CH4NG3

I have just recently returned from a conference in Nuland, Netherlands. The journey itself had been a tad treacherous as we traveled by car and due to snowing conditions there was a lot of surprises along the roads – accidents, burned cars, traffic jams, rough seas – basically almost everything one would expect from proper adventure. It took us roughly 10 hours one way, not counting 2 hours spent on ferry from Dover to Dunkirk. Plenty of time for thought collection and catching up with email, right.

Somewhere on the road in Belgium I got into discussion via Instagram with a friend about change. As Albert Einstein once said, ‘Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.’ The truth is that many of us are living this insanity. It’s ego altogether with comfort, which holds us back from openness towards new experiences and gaining fresh knowledge, which would be applicable and beneficial in order to create desired change.  The fact is that it takes strong emotional encounter that breaks the pattern as all of our actions that we do are either to avoid pain or to gain pleasure.

Such a pattern breakers can be illness, loss of a close person, getting fired from a job, bankruptcy, anything that pushes us over the limit to say ‘I won’t live this way anymore!’ At the end of April 2011 my world have changed forever. Our daughter Olivia was born and I decided that I shall not bullshit myself anymore. I realized that I want to be a person who is going to be setting the right example. I want to do what I talk about, which became one of my purposes. We live in the world where most of the people tell others to do what they have never done themselves. Ludicrous hypocrisy, which I do not want to be part of.

Either way it comes down to recognition and complete honesty with ourselves. Be humble enough to admit that we are not perfect. Realize our strengths – triple down on them ; realize weaknesses without dwelling into them, because everybody else is  going to do that for us. By starting with us first, we can help others to live better and more fulfilling lives. Making the world a better place small step at the time.

Cheers & Love

 

89 MILES STILL ON

It’s been a week since news broke that this year’s Stefanik Trail is being postponed due to global pandemic, COVID -19. The new date is 22nd May 2021. I was expecting this decision to come, but until it happened my hopes were high, that we’re still going to run. While reading the announcement, I felt myself slipping into dark. Sadness and disappointment ensued. The realization that there’s nothing I can do, transformed into gnawing anxiety, which was highlighted even more when I realized that I won’t be roaming the hills of Little Carpathians. At least not this year.

You see, this place is special to me, because of what happened there last year. Those hills made me. I became different, much better person(in my mind). I was transformed from a jogger into runner. And the difference? Jogger can live without running, but if he/she doesn’t, it’s a no biggie. However runner wraps his life around it. Whenever I need to resolve something, get inspiration or just get my feet back onto ground, I run. I run not from the problems, but right into them, and while my feet pound the ground, my mind produces solutions. Therefore, when I fully digested and processed the situation that was served, I knew I got to do something.

First of all, I started to raise funds for non profit organization called ‘Mind’ , which brings awareness to mental health, but not only, they’re also providing help for those in need. I’ve started to do so few months ago so it wouldn’t be fair to all good people who already sponsored me. Secondly, when I set my mind onto something, I tend to get it. I don’t like to let people, but mainly myself down, by not fulfilling what I set and say I’ll do. I rather go down dying than not trying. So finally, we’re nearing towards conclusion.

I’m still going to run 89 miles. I don’t know what restrictions will be in place next month, but so far we’re allowed one exercise outing a day, which means that in theory I could run whole distance around Rugby, if I only stop by the door of our house for refreshments, as there are no limitations to the length of exercise. Nonetheless, I would be allowed to make seven stops as there are seven aid stations at Stefanik Trail and I’d keep the distances between them identical.

Option number two is, and that’s the worst case scenario, I’m going to run this in our back garden, which is small, and in comparison to spectacular views of Slovakian hills, pretty dull. Either way it’s going to happen. Feel free to sponsor me and donate to ‘MIND’ as every single pound, euro, czech crown or polish zloty are going to go a long way and help many in need.

Lastly, thanks to all who donated and who are supportive of this adventure, especially among challenging times as we’re facing right now. But let’s not despair. There’s always hope, even in the worst circumstances, there’s a light, if one’s perspective allows it.

Stay safe, look after your health, peace & love.

WORLD’S HIATUS

The world is slowly, yet surely closing down. There is no free travel. Most countries closed their borders and won’t let anybody to get in or out. We, as humankind, are facing one of the biggest challenges in modern times. The schools, restaurants and bars, businesses are closing. Shops are limiting their open hours. We’re ordered to reside in our dwellings by government, and if we need to come out it’s to shop for necessities only, while keeping two meters distance from one another. Productions are holding on the hustle until government begins to bark, but hospitals, nurses and doctors are battling on. Most of the countries worldwide are under quarantine and isolation. Hospitals are not only full, but expanding. People are getting infected by thousands and dying by hundreds. Daily.

There’s so much information, precaution and white noise, but the struggle, even with the technology and experience that we posses, is more than real. After conversations with friends and family from all different corners of the world, involved in various businesses and trades, all made me very conscious about the fact what we’re facing isn’t ordinary. It’s not just another media exaggerated bubble. Not your ordinary viral flu, but as humankind we had been here before. It’s almost like a war, just without bullets. So what are we going to do?

My perspective is to be pragmatic. I keep on gaining information on daily basis, but I choose the source and don’t scroll through all the feeds and channels to be made paranoid. The hygiene in our household (especially when we return from our family outings) has increased, as well as supplementation and attention to what we eat in order to boost our immunology as much as possible. If you can’t leave your house, then I wholeheartedly recommend yoga and meditation in order to stay sane and progressive. Read a book or two. Play board games. Watch a movie. Keep in touch with people you enjoy to be around or build new relationships through this magnificent tool called internet. And if there aren’t any disturbances provided by your offsprings, have sex. Who wants to bet that maternity wards are going to explode next January/February, eh?!

On serious note, be practical, be grateful. If your family and friends are healthy than all is good. Every morning that you wake up and plant your feet on the ground, pause and think. Be aware that it doesn’t need to happen and one day, it simply won’t. So look on the bright side, because when bad times arrive, there’s a hoard of opportunity coming alongside. Certain amount of us is going to waste this time consuming Netflix and being entertained. Some percentage is going to be living in fear and won’t be able to pass this threshold. Yet, there’s going to be a sliver of people who are going to make step forward in realizing their dreams, values, goals and acting on them. When this is over, there are going to be new artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, journalists, scientists, insane people, and also jolly, grateful ones, but of course, babies!

Unfortunately, I have no doubt that it’s us, the human race, that is inevitably cause of this mayhem. In spite of that, it’s on us to take this lesson and make it our advantage. Please, if only for sake of those newborns coming in January.

Peace, love & stay safe,

Vegan, Vegetarian, Meat Eater…

One of many things that I can’t stomach is putting labels onto people, their actions and other happenstances. True, labeling has been put in place to set a direction of a topic, however many of us will have their idea mostly formulated hearing just the certain word. Especially these three terms in title are very hot merchandise. When one proclaims being vegan, most of us are going to have a reaction based on the past experiences and information gathered to that term, therefore we don’t look beneath the surface to discover many layers of the person standing in front of us, but we tend to judge the book by its cover. So I do not proclaim myself to be a vegan. I just eat everything, that does not contain milk, eggs, coloring’s coming from insects and anything that had been breathing and living creature. This to me is very creative, fun and sustainable way how we could take care of ourselves as well as of our environment. Let’s have a look at a bigger picture.

The biggest contributor of drastic climate changes in recent years is down to animal agriculture. Animal agriculture is responsible for 18 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, which is more than combined exhaust from all the transportation. Greenhouse gas emissions from transporting the livestock contributes by 13 percent. Fact is, that methane is 25-100 times more destructive than CO2 and has a global warming potential 86 times than that of CO2 on a 20 years time frame. Now, a single cow produces between 250 – 500 liters of methane per day. The same industry uses lots of water – half of a kilogram of beef needs 7 thousands liters of water, and yet we have third world countries where people are drinking unclean, contaminated water or hardly any at all.  Animal agriculture contributes to species extinction in many ways. In addition to the monumental habitat destruction caused by clearing forests and converting land to grow feed crops and for animal grazing, predators and “competition” species are frequently targeted and hunted because of a perceived threat to livestock profits. The widespread use of pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers used in the production of feed crops often interferes with the reproductive systems of animals and poison waterways. The over exploitation of wild species through commercial fishing, bush meat trade as well as animal agriculture’s impact on climate change, all contribute to global depletion of species and resources.

These few facts are just a raindrop in ocean of mad practices, cruelty and 0 consideration about consequences. What legacy are we going to leave to future generations. Are we going to continue to support our own exploitation by huge concerns, politics and lobbying, to have convenience resulting in catastrophe, over searching for right information and freedom. Can we muster enough hunger in us to change. One person at a time, for a grater good. Only time will tell. So this is a fraction of what the term ‘vegan’ means to me. What about you? Do you care enough?

 

Peace & Love