1: Getting better at getting better is what RiseWithDrew is all about.
Monday through Thursday, we explore ideas from authors, thought leaders, and exemplary organizations. On Friday, I share something about myself or what we are working on at PCI.
For many years, my go-to recovery activity after a long day was television. Along with a cold beer or a glass of wine.
The only problem with this approach?
It doesn’t work.
“Unfortunately, alcohol disrupts sleep, and TV keeps the brain active,” Steven Kotler writes in his terrific book The Art of Impossible.
TV and beer are examples of “passive recovery.” Which is different from “active recovery.”
“Active recovery takes work,” Steven observes.
He shares a list of active recovery activities, including massage, mindfulness, stretching, restorative yoga, Tai Chi, long walks in the woods, Epsom salt baths, saunas, ice baths, infrared saunas, and hot tub soaks.
2: One of my goals for 2024 is to be more intentional about active recovery.
One of my ten goals for 2024 is to get out of the city and go on a hike with our family every month.
What gets measured gets done—mostly. We did our January hike, but we missed February due to travel and other commitments, so the plan is to double up in March.
3: Another active recovery activity I’ve been experimenting with is taking a cold shower. I wait until the end of my usual hot shower (big fan of those!) and then turn the knob all the way to the left. I then stand under the cold shower for a minute or so.
Two observations: first, the water gets colder the further north one goes. It’s freezing in Colorado!
Second, I’ve applied some wisdom from philosopher Brian Johnson and basketball legend Michael Jordon.
Brian tells us that 100% is much easier than 99%, and Michael once said, “Once I made a decision, I never thought about it again.”
What that means for me is that I turn the knob to cold every single shower. I don’t have to think about it. Will I take a cold shower today? Will I not?
No, I’ve already decided. Every time.
I’ve thought about taking an ice bath but haven’t worked up the courage quite yet.
I have, however, experimented with another of Steven’s recommendations, the infrared sauna. Which was on my Christmas list this year. While I haven’t made it a habit (yet), it’s been fun trying it out.
More next week!
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Reflection: How intentional am I about prioritizing recovery activities?
Action: Review the list of recovery activities above. Experiment with one. Today!
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