Hang Loose

This has been one of my key attributes in life, hanging loose, being easy going, not really getting too caught up in “stuff”. Having a spirit of hangin’ loose is usually accompanied with the “shaka” (only having your thumb and pinky sticking out from your hand). Seems like a good way to go through life. I need to remind myself of this from time to time.

Hangin’ Loose

Think of it this way – don’t burn any extra effort, take it easy. Go with the flow.
Another definition of this sign is one of “distant greetings and gratitude”.
I use this pretty often while jogging and riding bike to signal to others and usually say “rock on”. Who knows why it just feels right doing it. Learning that it also encompasses gratitude is an additional bonus.

Triathlon

While exercising and getting ready for the Winding Trails Triathlon Series last year another form of “hang loose” started to emerge. When you are running a race you need to focus energy where needed. The other parts of your body need to “hang loose” and not waste valuable resources.
During a pre-race warmup, my triathlon buddy Jim and I went for a little jog. During this brief warmup Jim impressed upon me two key items:
1. Stay loose in the arms, don’t flex, strain or make a fist, keep everything loose and free
2. Keep your motions like a train, front to back – no wasted effort by crossing your arms in front of your chest, etc.
This serves a couple of key points. There is no need to strain any muscles except those you have engaged for propelling forward and keep your momentum in the right direction – where you want to go. By reducing wasted effort you will be able to go further and further. Work on the marathon, not the sprint!

Today – Letting go

There is a lot of “stuff” going on in my life, still no need to waste any effort and to keep the momentum going in the right direction. There is a great benefit to getting out and being active. The time you take to lift, swim, bike or run is beneficial both physically and mentally.

I went for a run at lunch and these thoughts were very prevalent. My running is getting better with each workout. I am able to keep my arms, shoulders and back pretty relaxed and comfortable. This allows me the ability to run a little better, longer each time. This also provided a good mental release to escape and “hang loose” for a while.

It’s getting easier and easier to live with this in mind. Am I perfect with it? Heck no! I am getting better each and every day. I am able to get out and run and let things go.

As I am reflecting on these lessons, the Serenity Prayer comes to mind (long version)

Serenity and acceptance – stay loose, don’t worry about the things that are not within your control.

Courage – put your efforts and momentum in the right direction.

Wisdom – Learn. If you don’t have the answer, look for help from others, look for help from above.

Trust in Him!

Seems logical enough. Stay loose, focus on the correct momentum, and don’t waste any efforts forcing things that are not meant to be and keep learning. Thy will be done!

As you go through life remember – Hang Loose!

As always, Truly Blessed!
-Dennis