Downtime?

Most of you probably think I came home from Poland all fired up to get back behind my bow and ready for TX. However, this is not the case.

Back a the beginning of July I had looked at the calendar, once I knew I was going to the World Cup, and I knew I would need to put a break into my schedule. I had realized that the longest I had taken off from shooting was 3-4 days since September! I don’t care what sport or activity you do, your body needs off time to recharge and refocus, so that is what I am doing now.

I committed myself to taking two weeks off. I am not allowed to shoot my bow, though I have played around some more with a recurve (and succeeded in ripping up my face again). Yes, at first it was very tough not to go through my normal daily routine, which shooting had become the biggest part of, however, I find it getting easier the more days I rest.

I did slightly cheat this past Sunday, as R and I shot a local 3d event, but I was using my backup bow (which is the one setup for 3d), so I told myself that was ok. Also, I literally only took 22 shots with it, so I told myself that wasn’t “really” shooting.

So why am I writing this post? It is to remind you that time off is not only important, but necessary. You can’t continue to improve, without some time away. Depending on what stage of development you are in your sport, as well as your individual characteristics, depends on how long you can go without a break. You may need a mini break every month or two, you may need a 6 month break every 5 years, everyone is different, but what is important is that you remember time away is good.

For me time away from the bow has meant catching up on housework I’ve neglected, getting to read some books that I’ve had on my to read list for way too long, and spending time with family and friends without the worry of trying to fit my arrows in for the day around it. Have you taken time off lately? What do you like to do when you aren’t working (whatever your job may be)? I’d love to hear your thoughts!