Stay in the Present Moment.

Today celebrating 3 months after facing very complex surgery.  Positive Mind and determination; sharing with you my new Path. Sharing this note; that one of my lovely client and friend Rowland Hayler; send to me few days ago.

This help me to be strong and Stay in the Present Moment.

Please share.  By Luz A. Lovern

Riding the roads of Qatar can be perilous for a number of reasons.  If you survive a ride without experiencing severe dehydration and/or getting crushed by a 4×4 as the driver speeds through one of the many roundabouts – well done!

Of course, there are alternatives: (1) don’t ride at all, (2) ride in the middle of the night, (3) ride an indoor trainer in your own air conditioned home, or (4) attend spin classes.  I decided on option (4) although I didn’t entirely give up my long-ish (100 mile) weekend aerobic road rides altogether!

After about a month in Qatar, I started attending spin classes at the Sheraton Hotel.  These classes were led by Luz Lovern and were typically one hour long, held 3 times per week.  The classes proved to be a lifeline for me.  The routines were mixed, session to session with great music and a fun group of class mates of diverse backgrounds.  Having attended many spin classes in the past, it soon became clear that Luz is indeed a rare talent.  A truly inspirational person and class leader, who pitched her sessions in such a way that they were valuable to riders of all experience and skills.

During the year that I was in Qatar, I regularly attended all Luz’s classes, 3 times per week – she also provided me with excellent nutrition advice and during this time I attained my lowest ever adult racing weight.  Even today when I’m maxxed out & hurting like hell in the red zone, I remember the greatest advice she ever provided – “stay in the moment”.  It goes through my head like a mantra and I’ve successfully dealt with a lot of tough situations (on & off the bike) with this gestalt advice in mind!

All in all it was a really fulfilling experience, and although I left Qatar in 2009, I’m really pleased that Luz & I continue to stay in regular contact through the power of social media!  I only wish I could still attend her classes!!

I wish you happy & safe cycling.

Rowland Hayler