Zen log/journal. Exercise as self care.

[LiteraryMatcha]

Hi everyone. I gave some thought about opening a log, and finally decided to do it, even if what it might be logged here is not impressive.
Actually, perhaps especially because of that.

Perhaps it is a good idea to show the type of exercise someone with moderate health issues does, in the hopes this will inspire others in similar circumstances to workout.

This log doesn't intend to provide medical or healthcare advice. That being said, perhaps it might inspire or give workout ideas to people with some of the following issues (among others)*Also note this is not a list of my diagnoses; just a reflection about who might sympathise or share common needs:
Rheumatologic conditions like RA/OA or fibromyalgia, ADD/ADHD (it is unlikely I'll end a whole programm), chronic pain, EDS/HSD, mild to moderate heart issues,musculoskeletal issues, conditions or situations that affect energy levels (hypothyroid issues, hypogonadothrophic hypogonadism, but also perhaps peri-postmenopause, "andropause", ME/CFS, chronic covid, etc.)

Finding a balance between workouts challenging enough to promote growth but not crossing the line of dangerous (regarding risk of injuries or medical emergencies) is a very nuanced line. We do have the luck of having Darebee (I almost gave up in exercising altogether , which would've made me deteriorate more, but Darebee showed me there is always a way, so I am immensely grateful to this project and I owe all participants in it my life).


At the end of the day, each person must decide how many sets to do, or if changes have to be made in a particular bad day.

All my workout /meditation routines will strive to:
-Be personally challenging enough.
-Honour total or partial rest days, especially when the body and its vitals are shouting for it.
-Honour active days as self care time, or "medicine".
-Be low impact (although not low effort).
-Be diverse, fun, exciting, and joyful (even if from the outside perhaps they might not be the most efficient, in the best order, or a bit chaotic).
-Be a tool for wellness: to help me grow or maintain fitness and to avoid me harm.
-Be recorded here as a way to reward me and remind me when I "showed up".


Everyone is welcome here to participate or share ideas or experiences.

I'll post my next workout here soon.

Template:
ED: (exercise of the Day)
FBS (Full body strength)
Wu: Warmup
St: stretch

Meditation types:
Open Monitoring Meditation (OM): Shikantaza, Dzogchen, non-dual awareness,...
Focused Attention Meditation (FA): visualisation, mantra, mala, center, anchor
Analytical Meditation (An): neiguan, metta, anicca, socratic enquiry, stoic prosoche...
Automatic Self Transcending Meditation (AST): Sunyata, Dragon's void, Samadhi, Ego-dissolution,...

Spoiler: June Template (draft)

Knight Plan:
(week 01.06.2026)

Mindful goals: Gratitude (x3), Zen sets/chores (x3), Empty mind transitions, Breath Gap pauses (x3), Refocus of mental drift
AST meditation (>30-60 m)/weekly

---

M: FBS
Power Grip Ch Day 26
Perfect Balance Ch Day 1
(opt.) DD x.x.x
Mindful goals (>3)
Daily meditation (AF/OM/An)
Extras (opt)

---

T: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga +/- abs)
Power Grip Ch Day 27
Perfect Balance Ch Day 2
(opt.) DD x.x.x
Mindful goals (>3)
Daily meditation (AF/OM/An)
Extras (opt)

---

W: M: FBS
Power Grip Ch Day 28
Perfect Balance Ch Day 3
(opt.) DDx.x.x
Mindful goals (>3)
Daily meditation (AF/OM/An)
Extras (opt)

---

Th: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga +/- abs)
Power Grip Ch Day 29
Perfect Balance Ch Day 4
(opt.) DD x.x.x
Mindful goals (>3)
Daily meditation (AF/OM/An)
Extras (opt)

---

F: FBS
Power Grip Ch Day 30 (end)
Perfect Balance Ch Day 5
(opt.) DD x.x.x
Mindful goals (>3)
Daily meditation (AF/OM/An)
Extras (opt)

---

Sa: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga +/- abs)
Perfect Balance Ch Day 6
(opt.) DD x.x.x
Mindful goals (>3)
Daily meditation (AF/OM/An)
Extras (opt)

---

Su: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga +/- abs)
Perfect Balance Ch Day 7
(opt.) DD x.x.x
Mindful goals (>3)
Daily meditation (AF/OM/An)
Extras (opt)

---

Have a good one.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

First log entry . I don't know how brief, consistent or comprehensive I will be when I log here. But the important bit is showing up.

Today has been a very good day so far, but my mind is not behaving and my body feels clumsier, so I needed a workout that made me sweat and tire me enough to stop overthinking, but effective enough to be an active day without risking injury. Let's call it "active meditation/active mindfulness".
This particular combo could be also considered a test of patience.

Workout of the day:

Gravity Control & Scorpio
Level I (II, perhaps).
Earplugs on, playing slow tibetan/crystal bowls (binaural music).

Focus:

• Presence (conscious awareness of posture, range of motion, balance and gravity center).
• Patience.
• A workout that looks deceptively "lazy" and easy, to build mental momentum (no big movements, no jumps, no ups and downs).
• Functional strength gain (full body, or major muscle groups).
• Avoiding explosive exercises or movements.
• Mental endurance/resilience.
• Exercise as a meditation. Yoga vibes, without being technically Yoga (although perhaps it is, I don't know).

Key observations:

• During Gravity Control, I focused on counting to 10 in my head, making sure it was slow; around 10-15 real seconds. If in doubt, I added +5 mental counting.
• Unilateral holds were repeated once for each leg per set (i.e. raised arms stand was done once with each leg, etc.)
• There was no rush in between exercises within each set, but also, no excuse to slack off. The slow pace was deliberate, ensuring correct gravity center, posture, and muscles involved.
• The temptation to rush the reps or the counting was there, but I wanted this to be a key part of the session. I am proud to say I didn't take any shortcut.
• The reps were slow, deliberate, to their full range of motion, without speed or cutting corners, even if my mind wanted them.

During the whole workout session, the head was focused. No thoughts. No worries. Also, no physical pain, just the normal "discomfort" of isometrics.
It was sometimes challenging enough to count this as cardio. The body and mind now feel relaxed (or less unsettled), less stiff, and more importantly, the mind remains quiet.


It took around 35 minutes or so, including the recommended rest time (around 60 to 120 seconds, depending on what the body needed).
It looks deceptively easy, but I feel as if I did a traditional HIIT session. You all probably know the feeling. The body feels floppy, relaxed, endorphins are high, but you're tired.

I recommend choosing similar workouts, depending on difficulty level and intensity, and adapting it to your needs, objectives and fitness level.

Have a good Easter.

 

[NightTigress]

New thread. Let's do this!

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Ah. I love this. It's giving early 2000s forum nostalgia. Even the Tuzki emojis are 10/10.


Today's workout: (partial rest)

Greet the day (Yoga) * One of my cats, Frejya, was delighted with this workout. She decided to join very diligently. Some family members around saw it and it has become a highlight of the day.
L-Sit prep (adjustments were needed. Set number of leg raises diminished, boat pose hold reduced to 20 seconds).
General stretching and Standing mobility stretching (this one is a staple for lower back issues).

Lesson learned (or rather, remembered): Leg raises are a huge struggle (chronically tight hip flexors).
New Goal: finding workouts that focus on releasing the iliopsoas (not just stretching), and build strength there. Perhaps some pilates, isometrics, or yoga. Suggestions welcome.
This will help aligning my spine, get better posture, ameliorate pain and allow for more intense lower abs workouts.

I hope everyone is having a great Friday.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Back again. I got the zoomies and I had to do something more just out of pure enjoyment, so I did 3 sets of crow poses (20 to 30 seconds hold each).
I didn't do the workout, just the pose hold, but it was fun.
As always, one of my cats (Frejya, it's always Frejya... ) decided to jump on top of me like this and in one of the holds, I lost balance.
I don't know why she does this anytime I do a hold exercise on the floor or if she thinks she's helping, but it never fails to make me laugh. She's such a silly sausage.

Anyway, I hope you all have a fantastic day.

 

[aku-chan]

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Today was a full rest day, although I did a deep clean of the house for a few hours, went out and carried some big drink crates during shopping.
I also did some iliopsoas stretching to avoid anterior pelvic tilt, but nothing much.
On a different note, I had a delicious tikka masala and solved some very interesting chess puzzles.

I hope everyone had a lovely day.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy Monday.

I have decided (for now) to stick to the Drifter Training Plan. At least I hope to stick with it.

Today, Monday, it was time for Full Body Strength (FBS).
After the warmup, I did my fave FBS workout, Taurus. (Level II today, but pushups were swapped to knee pushups, around 15 per set, as the shoulders weren't feeling great today).
To finish, I did this stretching routine, Shaolin Morning Flow.

Quote of the day: "Attached to nothing, connected to everything".

Have a good day everyone.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

I just wanted to type this as a small reflection of how life can sometimes be. I tend to leave these entries to my personal physical journal, but I thought it would be beneficial sharing, in case someone feels identified, or hopeless.

I never thought I'd reach my "peak" fitness in my 30s. I know there are limitations after 25 years old, but unless one is a pro, I don't think biology should stop us from striving to get fitter.
To think that during my 20s I ended up needing a cane to walk day to day -with crippling chronic pain-, and now I can walk normally, do exercises I never thought I'd be able to do, have better energy levels, feeling agile, having my chronic health issues under control, and my mind is finally at peace...it's crazy.

Surely, I know my body or life aren't what they were. Some wear and tear is evident, and I cannot get away with things my body would have tolerated better (ahem, pulling all nighters).
On another note, what I took for granted then (not necessarily due to age, but the personal circumstances) is now a privilege, or at least a level of luck or comfort I didn't know could disappear. What I thought was fundamental for me to thrive just happened to be a nice plus.

But overall, I want to remind everyone that life is not linear. We think we walk an uphill path, reach the "goal" and then stay in that utopic plateau forever.
Fortunately, or unfortunately, life is unpredictable and full of change. What we think will happen can take unexpected turns, and the only thing we all can do is adapt and be kind to ourselves and our surroundings.

I still have plenty to learn, but I think the most badass trait to develop is resilience and radical acceptance that we don't have control over most things. But also, to remember to take control of the things we can actually influence (like nutrition or exercise).

I want to give a special mention to "Built to last", and the whole DAREBEE project. The founder/s, team, volunteers and anyone involved are changing lives.
They have given me a new perspective and many tools to implement in my life, and help me regain some control over my circumstances.
I am happier, healthier and fitter thanks to it.

Honestly, I have no words to express how grateful and fortunate that this project exists.
I can only assume how difficult it must be to keep this project up and rolling, but I am convinced many lives have been changed and are being changed for the better thanks to everyone involved. And this includes the community (not just online, but in general).
Knowing anyone and everyone can visit this webpage and might be doing the very same workout you're doing anywhere in the world is so encouraging.
One feels connected to the Hive, without knowing each bee, or without communicating.

In a world so full of dread and chaos (you just have to turn the tellie on or check the news...), it is so healing to know there are still many people out there making things better.

Anyway, I hope everyone is having a great Monday.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy Chewsday. Today I was definitely not in the mood to exercise. I woke up grumpy, tired, not really rested. I felt very precious.
I got some time for myself and I was feeling restless and bored, so thought to myself "fuck it, let's go. I want to exercise". (Plot twist, I didn't, but this is ethical self- gaslighting. And it works. Really).
Ok, I managed to get myself ready, chose a cardio workout (today was cardio, according to the Drifter training plan), and put the OST of the videogame Hades and Hades II.
That did it.

Today's exercise:

1. Normal warmup.
2. It's Adventure Time! (Level III, 30 seconds between sets). I can't feel my legs xD.
3. Exercise of the day: reverse crunches. Deceptive. Cheeky, sly. The first 10 got me cocky. By number 20 my belly was on fire.
4. Freestyle push ups (just a few, veeeery slow ones, to keep me on my toes).
   
   
5. Stretching.
6. Meditative dancing.

The stretching and dancing was done listening to this song, which I recommend: (link to YT video)
Ψαραντώνης / Μάριος Λουπάσης - Κραυγή

PS: if anyone can find this jewel in spotify, please send it my way.

Have a good one.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

. I hope everyone is doing well. Oh dear, I already reckon this entry is going to be chaotic. I'm in gremlin mode today.

I started my morning trying some small taoist yang rituals to do after waking up. It felt helpful.

Drifter's training plan. Today was combat, so... I did this: Epic fighter workout. Level III, 30 seconds in between the 7 sets.
I still had the zoomies (I think I rushed the workout, because I finished it in 20 minutes).
Anyways, I wanted to do more, but I didn't feel like doing more combat/cardio sets after the 7,so...
Exercise of the day done. Not gonna lie, I felt very seductive .
Zoomies remained so...

Hang in there! , my home pullup bar arrived today, and I needed an excuse to use it (after checking it was safe).
I ended up doing the pullup dead hang workout set twice (so I think that's a total of 8 dead hangs to failure).

As most isometric exercises, this proved to be very humbling and deceptively easy.
It turns out my grip strength isn't where I want it to be (yet). I lasted around 20 seconds until failure before my fingers started screaming and slipping. A shame, because my back and arms could've handled a bit more.
I also can't do a single pullup (yet) without the usual inertia one would use to climb a wall or platform.

Not yet, but I WILL. You all can bet I will. I'm a stubborn one.


Anyway, it felt good to monkey around. It was very fun, and my inner child was pleased.
I felt a bit like a sloth, hanging. (Damn, now that I notice, the sloth in the gif is doing a dead hang with ONE arm...fucking hell)

My back also feels grateful for the stretch.



OH! I almost forgot. I redeemed the chest from our recent 2026 Treasure Hunt.
I got to drink a delicious jasmine tea and read some chapters of a book about taoism.

I hope everyone had a nice day. Take care everyone.

EDIT:
Oh, I realised there is a dead hang challenge!!! (day 1 done)

Alright, adding it here and counting today as achieved, based on what I did in my workout.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy Thursday.
How was your day? Feel free to tell me here.

My day was lovely. The weather got quite warm tho, and pretty sunny, which is not really to my liking.
I hate to admit that despite loving nature, I feel way too comfortable under 4 walls and a roof, especially if there's coffee/tea and books.

But enough of me and my yapping.



Daily:
Warm up,
Dead Hang Challenge (day 2),
(optional) Exercise of the Day (40 side jacks),
Stretching (after workout)

+
Thursday (Drifter's plan): Core (2 move abs workout)

+
Extra:
Grip training workout (without the dumbbells, as I don't have them. I do have the dumb, just not the bells xD).
Oh, I also ended doing 5 sets of the dead hangs from the grip training (not counting the challenge).
Walked around 10km throughout the day (a few hours) with some hills. The ewatch states I had around 35 active minutes.


I hope you all had a lovely day too. I can smell the weekend already.
Have a good one.

 

[Dyneti]

(Damn, now that I notice, the sloth in the gif is doing a dead hang with ONE arm...fucking hell)

I think probably it is doing a dead hang with one arm and 2 legs. Would love to try that, but my feet are so bad at gripping

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

I think probably it is doing a dead hang with one arm and 2 legs. Would love to try that, but my feet are so bad at gripping

Alright yeah, you're right BUT still, look at it!!!
It's smiling, scratching its belly like that pose is the most comfortable in the world!
And we humans have the audacity to call it "sloth"!!! xD

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy Friday.
I hope you are all doing well.
Right...

Workout plan :

Daily:
Warm up,
Dead Hang Challenge (day 3), + EXTRA: Grip training workout (+ 4 sets dead hangs, not counting the challenge)
(optional) Exercise of the Day,
Stretching (after workout)

+
Friday: Full Body Strength (Scorpio Workout)



Have a good Friday and rest of the weekend everyone.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Hiiii everyone. Happy Caturday.

I hope everyone is doing ok.

Right, down to business.


Daily:
Warm up,
Dead Hang Challenge (day 4, EC: 30 seconds in one go instead of 25)- I did this shortly after waking up. It felt quite good and my back pain is disappearing.
(optional) Exercise of the Day,
Stretching (after the dead hang).

+
Saturday: Cardio/HIIT. Teeeechnically I haven't done any formal cardio (hence the grey star), but I spent most of the day walking up and down a local forest with a friend, and I did around 15km total. My ewatch states I did my daily cardio, so I will take this as partial compliance. My body enjoyed it.


I hope everyone had a good day. Have a good one!

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy Sunday.
I hope everyone is doing well.

Workout plan template:

Daily:
Warm up,
Dead Hang Challenge,
(optional) Exercise of the Day,
Stretching (see below)

+
Sunday:
Rest day (optional: Stretching (Hip flexors Workout) / Light Yoga)

Have a wonderful rest of the day.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy Monday everyone!
I hope you all had a good day and start of the week.
Mine was exciting but also stressful, so today's workout session helped a lot.


Workout plan:

Daily:
Warm up,
Dead Hang Challenge (day 6), EC: another set of 30 seconds in one go after 30 seconds of rest from the 1st.
(optional) Exercise of the Day (Side plank hold, 20 secs per side),
Stretching (after workout)

+
Monday: Full Body Strength (Bridge Duty)Level II, EC.
Tuesday: Cardio/HIIT
Wednesday: Combat
Thursday: Core
Friday: Full Body Strength (FBS)
Saturday: Cardio/HIIT
Sunday: Rest day (optional: Stretching/ Light Yoga)

Extra:
Grip training, EC (not counting the dead hangs from the challenge).


Have a good one everybody.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Hi everyone. Happy Chewsday.

I hope everyone is doing ok.



Workout plan:

Daily:
Warm up,
Dead Hang Challenge (day 7), EC: 20 seconds, 2 sets.
(optional) Exercise of the Day (Knee to elbow 30)
Stretching (after workout)

+
Monday: Full Body Strength (Bridge Duty)Level II, EC.
Tuesday: Cardio/HIIT: Helix, Level I + Heart Hustle Level II
Wednesday: Combat
Thursday: Core
Friday: Full Body Strength (FBS)
Saturday: Cardio/HIIT
Sunday: Rest day (optional: Stretching/ Light Yoga)

Extra:
none

Have a good one!



Music hype of the day:

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy Hump day. How are you all doing? Feel free to let me know in a reply.

I have been thinking about perhaps putting a rune/tarot card/quote of the day here, as I do when I journal privately, but I don't know if any of you would be interested, really.
Let me know.

Rune of the day: Wunjo, both upwards and reverse.
The hard won joy and success, but also the set backs, the delays in gratification or sorrow for not possessing or achieving our goals at this very precise moment.
Wunjo, to me, teaches us that joy, harmony, peace and happiness are an active work in progress; that our joy requires active input to achieve and maintain it, regardless of and in spite of our external circumstances.

Right, now to the point.


Daily:
Warm up,
Dead Hang Challenge (>>>day 8<<<), in one go.
(optional) Exercise of the Day 15.04.26 (30 count stretch hold)
Stretching (after workout)

+
Monday: Full Body Strength (Bridge Duty)Level II, EC.
Tuesday: Cardio/HIIT: Helix, Level I + Heart Hustle Level II
Wednesday: Combat. Rogue Queen( Level II & EC) + Epic Fighter (Level II & EC).
Thursday: Core
Friday: Full Body Strength (FBS)
Saturday: Cardio/HIIT
Sunday: Rest day (optional: Stretching/ Light Yoga)

Extra:
:v: Grip Training + EC (3 sets dead hangs 20 secs, not counting Challenge)

Have a good one!

For the Viking folk lovers and the warriors who wanna feel epic during the workout:

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Hii, happy Thursday.

How's everyone?
I had a nice day. Very busy, and I didn't get much sleep. I can definitely notice it in my performance, so I have to try to get more sleep tonight.

Anyway, business:


Daily:
Warm up,
Dead Hang Challenge (>>>day 9<<<).
(optional) Exercise of the Day 16.04.26 (20 split lunges)
Stretching (after workout)

+
Monday: Full Body Strength (Bridge Duty)Level II, EC.
Tuesday: Cardio/HIIT: Helix, Level I + Heart Hustle Level II
Wednesday: Combat. Rogue Queen( Level II & EC) + Epic Fighter (Level II & EC).

Thursday: Core (Military Abs, Level I). This mf was awful. A real challenge, not just mentally, but due to reaching failure before finishing the set. I had to do adapted leg raises due to my back pain and musculoskeletal issues, but the burn and sting at the end was the good kind of pain. Whoever has done rehab knows what I'm talking about.

Friday: Full Body Strength (FBS)
Saturday: Cardio/HIIT
Sunday: Rest day (optional: Stretching/ Light Yoga)

Extra:
Grip Training + EC (3 sets dead hangs 20 secs, not counting Challenge). Yes, also done this Thursday.


Have a fantastic day.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Hiiii bees. You're all the bees knees.
Happy Friday. I hope the week has been kind to you.
I have been feeling a bit under the weather during the last days, but I have also had a few peaks of stress due to high stakes situations. Hopefully things will settle down now.

Right. Business.

DRIFTER PLAN:
Warm up,
Dead Hang Challenge (>>>day 10<<<). (I can't believe I hung from the bar for 40 seconds in a row, wtf. Last week I couldn't last even 10 seconds at first).
(optional) Exercise of the Day 17.04.26 (40 hooks)
Stretching (after workout) Super Hero workout + my own

+
Monday: Full Body Strength (Bridge Duty)Level II &EC.
Tuesday: Cardio/HIIT: Helix, Level I + Heart Hustle Level II
Wednesday: Combat. Rogue Queen( Level II & EC) + Epic Fighter (Level II & EC).
Thursday: Core (Military Abs, Level I).

Friday: Full Body Strength (Bridge Duty Level II & EC)
Saturday: Cardio/HIIT
Sunday: Rest day (optional: Stretching/ Light Yoga)

Extra:
Daybreak (Back Strength workout to complement the other one)

I can't believe how well this song works on 8bit style. I never thought Lady Gaga would sound like a boss battle of a retro game.

Have a good one!

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy Caturday.

I hope your weekend is going great.
Right.

DRIFTER PLAN:
Warm up,
Dead Hang Challenge (>>>day 11<<<).
(optional) Exercise of the Day 17.04.26 (20 High Crunches + EC 20 more)
Stretching (after workout)

+
Monday: Full Body Strength (Bridge Duty)Level II &EC.
Tuesday: Cardio/HIIT: Helix, Level I + Heart Hustle Level II
Wednesday: Combat. Rogue Queen( Level II & EC) + Epic Fighter (Level II & EC).
Thursday: Core (Military Abs, Level I).
Friday: Full Body Strength (Bridge Duty Level II & EC)
Saturday: Cardio/HIIT; Graceling HIIT workout Level I + Mantis Cardio Workout Level I (*see extras too down below)
Sunday: Rest day (optional: Stretching/ Light Yoga)

Extra: (Quite random, being honest, but I got the zoomies and I craved chaos. Today was goblin mode).
5 burpees*
5 dragon pushups*
5 slow pushups (normal descend, knee ascend)*
5 negative slow pullups (or should I say pulldowns? xD)


And with this, this week's active workout plan is finished.
Tomorrow it will be an active rest and self care day. Looking forward to it.

Have a good one.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

YOOOOOOOO GUYS
I managed to do a 50 second dead hang in one go!! (I reached failure, but still).
I will prolly edit this to add a stretch or whatever.

Edit:
DRIFTER PLAN (week 13.04.26):
Warm up,
Dead Hang Challenge (>>>day 12<<<). (*EC: 50secs instead of 45).
(optional) Exercise of the day.
Stretching (after workout)

+
Monday: Full Body Strength (Bridge Duty)Level II &EC.
Tuesday: Cardio/HIIT: Helix, Level I + Heart Hustle Level II
Wednesday: Combat. Rogue Queen( Level II & EC) + Epic Fighter (Level II & EC).
Thursday: Core (Military Abs, Level I).
Friday: Full Body Strength (Bridge Duty Level II & EC)
Saturday: Cardio/HIIT; Graceling HIIT workout Level I + Mantis Cardio Workout Level I
Sunday: Rest day (optional: Stretching- daily reset workout-/ Light Yoga)

Extra:
Delicious homemade waffles
30 minutes nap
Self care
I might meditate later or do a short yoga session.

I think I gotta simplify the log. It's too complicated.

Have a good one. I hope everyone enjoyed their Sunday.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

This song is one of my fave ever.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy Monday.

I hope you are all doing well.

Anyway.

ED: (exercise of the Day)
FBS (Full body strength)
Wu: Warmup
St: stretch



Drifter:
(week 20.04.26)
*Note to self: add some small easy rotator cuff and trap training. Shoulders aren't shouldering, and we don't want injuries.

Wu
Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 13<<<),
(opt.) ED 40 leg raises 20.04.26
St
Cr+Prt suppl.
+
M: FBS Total Body Workout
T: Cardio/HIIT
W: Combat
Th: Core
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga)

This week is gonna get busy. Cheers to a week full of excitement and temperance.

Have a good one.

Great song to pump your week up.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Hiiii beeees.
How is the Hive doing?
It's chewsday innit. I hope you all had a good day.

Alrightio.

Drifter:
(week 20.04.26)
*Note to self: add some small easy rotator cuff and trap training. Shoulders aren't shouldering, and we don't want injuries.

Wu
Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 14<<<),
(opt.) ED 40 calf raises
St
Cr+Prt suppl.
EXTRA: 3 sets x 10 reps dead lifts (w. Bands) + Rotator Cuff workout
daily 10-30 min. Meditation
+
M: FBS Total Body Workout
T: Cardio/HIIT Fire and Fury HIIT Level I + 11 km walk (brisk- day) + 40 floors
W: Combat
Th: Core
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga)


I hope your day ends smoothly and peacefully.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy hump day. How are things going? I am a bit on edge, navigating uncertainty with grace.
It is so hard to let go and just wait for things to unfold sometimes, isn't it? We are taught to act, and chase dreams, but never to stay still and wait.
Both have their time and place.

Anyway, today I was feeling quite tired, so I haven't done as much as I would've liked, but I showed up, and that's all that matters.


Drifter:
(week 20.04.26)
*Note to self: add some small easy rotator cuff and trap training. Shoulders aren't shouldering, and we don't want injuries.

Wu
Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 15<<<), (I'm halfway through!!!!)
(opt.) ED 20 get-ups
St
Cr+Prt suppl.
daily 10-30 min. Meditation
+
M: FBS Total Body Workout
T: Cardio/HIIT Fire and Fury HIIT Level I + 11 km walk (brisk- day) + 40 floors
W: Combat Iron Fist Level I (I managed to do the side kicks without putting the leg down or losing balance, so I'm counting that as EC, fuck it).
Th: Core
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga)

And now I've decided to take the rest of the eve as self care.
I bought a clay mask and I might put it on and give myself an oil body massage whilst I wait.
Will I look goofy af? probably, but also I'll get fabulous skin and relaxed muscles in the process.
(Let's normalise men looking after ourselves and being gentle)

Have a good day bees.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Hiiii, Happy Thursday bees.
How's the week treating y'all? I hope it's all going well.
Today I am in emoji and chatty mode, so brace yourselves.


Day report and gremlinry:
The self care evening last night was a panacea to my mind. I woke up in a better mood, but I think I had nightmares. Gladly, I don't remember.
Today I got good news, and also two extra unexpected good news too.
Unfortunately, life is not fair, just balanced, so to counter this I have to be patient until those news fully settle and manifest in my life as facts.

It is so strange how when you finally stop mentally caring about matters, things move out of their way to get to you, instead of you chasing them incessantly.
I read a quote that said something along those lines: "Prepare like you never won, but perform like you've never lost".

Let's claim this state as something permanent for anyone reading this. I hope all (aligned) good things arriving to our lives come to stay.

On an unrelated bittersweet note (not really serious), people keep assuming I'm way younger than I look, which is flattering but also annoying.
I don't want to be talked at like a babyboy, nor hit on by 20 year olds .
On the contrary people my age assume I'm too young for them (the issue of not being able to properly grow a full beard, aka perpetual elf face).

But if this is all I have to complain about after the last years of endured hell and real life problems, I take this as a win.
I guess sometimes one has to complain about something. Here is a national sport .

Ok, now, business.

Drifter:
(week 20.04.26)

Wu
Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 16<<<, 55 seconds in one go)
(opt.) ED 20 Hero squads
St
Cr+Prt suppl.
daily 10-30 min. Meditation
EXTRA: Shields up! (1 set only). I wanted to do some trap training but the body asked for rest after 1 set. Tomorrow is FBS training anyway.
+
M: FBS Total Body Workout
T: Cardio/HIIT Fire and Fury HIIT Level I + 11 km walk (brisk- day) + 40 floors
W: Combat Iron Fist Level I (EC: balanced kicks, one leg hold)
Th: Core Workout of the Day (Core Lock workout) (+ EC?, slow count)
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga)


Notes of the day:

• Re Deadhangs: I let go 2 seconds before I should've, but I made it up by dead hanging for 10 seconds longer as soon as I got back to the bar, so I take that as a win?
  
  
• Re Meditation: haven't done it, at least not yet. Might do later. Or a quick, quiet gratitude "pray"/reflection.
  
  
• Re Core Workout (planks): This shit was insane. I prolly added EC (I count veeery slowly to 10), but i had to take 5 to 10 seconds of rest when I reached the 7th move, the plank, just before moving to the 8th, and another 5 to 10 seconds of rest before the last pose.
  
  
• Re Core Workout (pushups): On a good note, I could do the 6 full pushups with good form. That's a new, so I take that as another win. Until now I could only do 2-3 full pushups max/day, but knee ones were getting too easy, and negative-knee mix pushups were mentally boring and tedious.

If any of you have truly read any of my crap, thank you in advance, and please, post how your day been too, or anything you want.


Before I f*ck off, I am gonna leave this Spice Girls cover in the style of SOAD.

And this mix of Slipknot and Spice Girls too. Why the fuck not.


Have a good one!!!!

 

[Dyneti]

I read a quote that said something along those lines: "Prepare like you never won, but perform like you've never lost".

On the one hand I am not sure if I understand that on the other hand it very much reminds me of something a friend of mine likes to quote: "Pray like everything depends on god, work like everything depends on you"

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

On the one hand I am not sure if I understand that on the other hand it very much reminds me of something a friend of mine likes to quote: "Pray like everything depends on god, work like everything depends on you"

Ohhhh it is similar to what your friend says.

What I understand of both quotes is that you have to put the work to prepare for challenges with all you have, but to bring huge confidence in the decisive moments where you're evaluated/tested. Basically putting your fears aside.

The quote from your friend is similar, but it bases the source of courage from faith, whereas the other quote bases it on self love.
Honestly, it kinda makes me want to make a quote that fusions both xD.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

bees.
How is it going? I hope you are doing well.
Happy Friday.


Drifter:
(week 20.04.26)

Wu
Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 17<<<)
(opt.)(EDIT: I ended up doing this) ED 40 knee to elbows.
daily 10-30 min. Meditation
+
M: FBS Total Body Workout
T: Cardio/HIIT Fire and Fury HIIT Level I + 11 km walk (brisk- day) + 40 floors
W: Combat Iron Fist Level I (EC: balanced kicks, one leg hold)
Th: Core Workout of the Day (Core Lock workout) (+ EC?, slow count)
F: FBS Navy Seal Workout (Level I, adaptations +++), LI, resistance bands.
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga)

Have a good one!

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy Caturday.

How is it going?

My day was lovely. The weather is delightful today. Although a bit too sunny for my taste.

Drifter:
(week 20.04.26)

Wu
Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 18<<<) +EC (x2 sets of 60 secs, not in one go, x1 slip in 1st set, x2 slips in 2 sets, muscles are tired from yesterday I think).
(opt.)10 plank walk outs (EC 5+)
daily 10-30 min. Meditation (not yet, later)
+
M: FBS Total Body Workout
T: Cardio/HIIT Fire and Fury HIIT Level I + 11 km walk (brisk- day) + 40 floors
W: Combat Iron Fist Level I (EC: balanced kicks, one leg hold)
Th: Core Workout of the Day (Core Lock workout) (+ EC?, slow count)
F: FBS Navy Seal Workout (Level I, adaptations +++), LI, resistance bands.
Sa: Cardio/HIIT Cardio Sculpt workout Level 2 (workout of the day) + 2 hour walk in forest and local castle (stairs ++).
Su: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga)


What have you done to enjoy your day?

Have a good one.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Hi hi! quick end of the week log.

I hope everyone is doing well.

Drifter:
(week 20.04.26)

Wu
Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 19<<<) +EC (x2 sets of 60 secs, not in one go, x1 slip in 1st set, x2 slips in 2 sets, muscles are tired from yesterday I think).
(opt.)ED
daily 10-30 min. Meditation (edit: done)
+
M: FBS Total Body Workout
T: Cardio/HIIT Fire and Fury HIIT Level I + 11 km walk (brisk- day) + 40 floors
W: Combat Iron Fist Level I (EC: balanced kicks, one leg hold)
Th: Core Workout of the Day (Core Lock workout) (+ EC?, slow count)
F: FBS Navy Seal Workout (Level I, adaptations +++), LI, resistance bands.
Sa: Cardio/HIIT Cardio Sculpt workout Level 2 (workout of the day) + 2 hour walk in forest and local castle (stairs ++).
Su: Rest ( optional: Stretch/Yoga /+ abs)


Happy Sunday!

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Hi bees. Happy Monday. I hope your week started well.

Mine hasn't, but it will get better.
Today's energy levels are low, and chronic pain/issues are unusually high. I'm in Death Defiance mode (videogame pun intended).
Therefore, I am reluctantly sticking to my Drifter Plan, but I'm not going to lie, my head was in "A NEW HAND TOUCHES THE BEACON" mode.
Zero motivation.
I am still grumpy and feeling precious.
I am sorry for not being as active liking and encouraging you. I have 1 spell slot and I cannot even stand myself today.
I still showed up, because I'm stubborn as a mule. And I'm glad. The movement helped me manage my symptoms and make them bearable.
So take this as a sign to move your ass, even if it's just for some light stretching. You'll thank yourself later.

Anyway.

Drifter:
(week 27.04.26)

Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 20<<<) x2 slips +EC after 10 sec. rest(+30 seconds more of dead hang).
(opt.)ED
daily 10-30 min. Meditation v:act./pas.)
EXTRA: Shaolin Morning Flow Stretching
M: FBS Sagittarius Level III + EC
T: Cardio/HIIT
Th: Core
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest ( optional: Stretch/Yoga /+ abs)

I am also tinkering with the log format, and decided to remove warm up and stretching because I always do it anyway to avoid injuries.

Have a good one, and if you have read this, thank you for your constant encouragement.
EDIT: Adding this banger, as it fits the day perfectly and honestly, if you like puzzles/logic games, classical music, jazz and seductive stories, this game is perfect for you.

For the ones who have played, do you also hear "EDGE, EDGE" everytime you listen to the OST? I get flashbacks

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

bees. How is it going?
Happy Tuesday. I hope you are doing well. How are things going from your side of the world?

I am still on the mend. Sleep last night was deplorable (around 4h). But I am happy I have some time off.
The day was busy, and I wasn't feeling my best but I showed up.
I have also had some time to play Kingdom Come: Deliverance for the first time. Quite fun.
So there's that.

Drifter:
(week 27.04.26)

Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 21<<<) + EC 80 secs (not in one go)
(opt.)ED 40 squad hold calf raises
daily 10-30 min. Meditation v:act./pas.)

M: FBS Sagittarius Level III + EC
T: Cardio/HIIT (+EC) Minute on, Minute off (HIIT) + Epic Abs (HIIT)
W: Combat
Th: Core
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest ( optional: Stretch/Yoga /+ abs)


I genuinely thought today I wouldn't do any exercise, but by early evening I was itching to move.
One thing brought another, and I ended up doing a whole workout, so I am quite happy.

Have a good one!

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

bees.
Happy Hump day. Quick log start.
I hope your day is going well and that you are being kind to yourselves.

Achievement unlocked: full pushups (<10 in one go) are now easily achievable!


DRIFTER PLAN:
(week 27.04.26)

Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 22<<<), 1min 20 secs (NOT in one go, but no rest)
(opt.)ED 50 shoulder taps
daily 10-30 min. Meditation (act./pas.)


M: FBS Sagittarius Level III + EC
T: Cardio/HIIT (+EC) Minute on, Minute off (HIIT) + Epic Abs (HIIT)
W: Combat Final Boss (Combat) Level II +EC
Th: Core
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest ( optional: Stretch/Yoga /+ abs)
EXTRA:
Taichi Cool down (from a random yt video). Can recommend.
Grip Training (EC: x4 sets of 20 secs dead hangs, Ch excluded)
a few pushups, chest expansions and bodyweight shoulder presses. No set.


Have a good one!

(Edit: added the rest of the exercise done later)

 

[agc]

Great job with the push-ups!

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Great job with the push-ups!

Thank you so much @agc .

Hi bees. Happy Thursday. How is it going? I hope you are all doing well.

DRIFTER PLAN:
(week 27.04.26)

Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 23<<<)
(opt.)ED 30 count bear plank hold
daily 10-30 min. Meditation (act./pas.) (not yet)


M: FBS Sagittarius Level III + EC
T: Cardio/HIIT (+EC) Minute on, Minute off (HIIT) + Epic Abs (HIIT)
W: Combat Final Boss (Combat) Level II +EC
Th: Core Ab Forge Level II+EC (Workout of the Day)
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest ( optional: Stretch/Yoga /+ abs)
EXTRA:
Taichi Cool down


Have a wonderful rest of the day, bees!

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Hi Bees!!! Happy Friday. I hope you're all doing well.
Are you looking forward to the weekend?


Right.

DRIFTER PLAN:
(week 27.04.26)

Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 24<<<)
(opt.)ED 40 jumping jacks
daily 10-30 min. Meditation (act./pas.)


M: FBS Sagittarius Level III + EC
T: Cardio/HIIT (+EC) Minute on, Minute off (HIIT) + Epic Abs (HIIT)
W: Combat Final Boss (Combat) Level II +EC
Th: Core Ab Forge Level II+EC (Workout of the Day)
F: FBS Fisherman Level I
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest ( optional: Stretch/Yoga /+ abs)
EXTRA:
Wushu Snake style planks (3 sets x10 sec).
Taichi Cool down


Have a good one, bees!

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Bees. Happy Caturday.
How is this fine weekend going? Any plans? Let me know.
So far I had a lovely day. I couldn't be arsed with exercising, but I reluctantly complied. And once I started, I was having so much fun exercising to music I didn't want to stop .

That being said, I think I have unlocked a weird achievement.

My knees hurt more than usual and I could smell a very strong petrichor, so I had the hunch that a thunderstorm was coming, despite the sky being sunny and clear.
And within 10 minutes, the whole Apocalypse (Noah and animals included) started. Thunderstorm, grey skies, pouring. Funny.

Anyways.


DRIFTER PLAN:
(week 27.04.26)

Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 25<<<)
(opt.) 60 balance leg swings.
daily 10-30 min. Meditation (act./pas.)


M: FBS Sagittarius Level III + EC
T: Cardio/HIIT (+EC) Minute on, Minute off (HIIT) + Epic Abs (HIIT)
W: Combat Final Boss (Combat) Level II +EC
Th: Core Ab Forge Level II+EC (Workout of the Day)
F: FBS Fisherman Level I
Sa: Cardio/HIIT HIIT Mass Blast Level III + EC
Su: Rest ( optional: Stretch/Yoga /+ abs)

EXTRA:
Workout of the day: Undone Stretching
30 seconds sit assisted dead hangs (to stretch and decompress the arms and back).



Also, dropping this Aggrotech song from Hocico (one of my fave bands ever), because doing HIIT to this (especially the toe tap hops) is SUPER FUN.

Have a good one!

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

bees. Happy Sunday.
How's the day treating you?

I'm quite content. So far I have enjoyed a pot of tea whilst looking at the sun from the window.


DRIFTER PLAN:
(week 27.04.26)

Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>> 26<<<)
(opt.) 30 jump squats.
daily 10-30 min. Meditation (act./pas.)


M: FBS Sagittarius Level III + EC
T: Cardio/HIIT (+EC) Minute on, Minute off (HIIT) + Epic Abs (HIIT)
W: Combat Final Boss (Combat) Level II +EC
Th: Core Ab Forge Level II+EC (Workout of the Day)
F: FBS Fisherman Level I
Sa: Cardio/HIIT HIIT Mass Blast Level III + EC
Su: Rest ( optional: Stretch/Yoga /+ abs) Shaolin morning flow

EXTRA:
Blood and Qi circulation Qi gong routine (10 minutes).

Have a good one!

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Happy Monday bees!

How are you all doing?
Drifter
(week 04.05.2026)
Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>>27<<<),
(opt.) ED 04.05.2026 (30 W extensions).
+
M: FBS Back in Action Level I (upper body) + Good morning legs (lower body) + Hollow Hold Master (core)
T: Cardio/HIIT
W: Combat
Th: Core
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga +/- abs)

EXTRA:
3 sets of 10 seconds wushu-snake planks



I just realised I missed the opportunity to post this song last week, during Walpurgisnacht.
Still worth putting this banger here.

"Los carniceros del Norte" is an 80s inspired Horrorpunk band from Pais Vasco (Spain). They base most songs on horror themes and horror movie classics.
If you are familiar with the 80s punk scene (especially from Spain, like Paralisis Permanente), their music will definitely pull your heart strings.
They were founded in 2006, but they really sound like they belong in the 80s.

Another band that scratches the 80s nostalgia but is also relatively contemporaneous is "She Past Away". They are a post-punk/darkwave band from Turkey.
They are influenced by bands like Depeche Mode.

Have a good one. I hope this week treat us all nicely.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

bees. Happy Tuesday. How is it going?
I am feeling a bit tired and grumpy.
I am on the finish line for the Dead Hang Challenge, and I gotta say I'm finding the progression curve way too steep for me.

I reached my peak at about day 14, where I was able to dead hang for 50-55 seconds in one go no problem, but from there I've gone downhill.
I can barely last 30 seconds in one go now, sometimes even 20 seconds feel too much. I am reaching failure multiple times during the challenge, and sometimes I even have to carry on doing leg assisted dead hangs to finish the time (that is, as if I were doing a squat but letting my upper body take more weight than my feet, avoiding using my legs). Even then I am struggling.

My back and forearm muscles are exhausted and very tight despite all the TLC I'm giving them.
I I reckon I'm not showing up at my best for this challenge. And this is taking into account that I've been on creatin for a while now.

Perhaps it is a "me" thing (due to all my health issues, age and variables) and others manage to follow the challenge no problem.
I am also aware my pullup bar is quite thick, barely being able to use my thumb, so that probably makes things harder.

I feel like this emoji when trying to achieve the time in one go. My mind wants to but my muscles flip me off.

I will finish this Challenge and afterwards I will take some time off dead hangs to rest my back/forearm muscles before attempting to do more time in one go.

After the rest from the dead hangs (days, perhaps a week?) I plan to add the bar training plan addon, and I might do some body rows using my pullup bar with rings until I am able to progress into full pullups, as well as keeping the ocasional dead hangs to build my fitness up to be able to do the 2 minutes in one go.

Tja. Éche o que hai.

So, business.
EDIT: today's workout done and added.

Drifter
(week 04.05.2026)
Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>>28<<<),
(opt.) ED 20 count side elbow plank hold (per side)
+
M: FBS Back in Action Level I (upper body) + Good morning legs (lower body) + Hollow Hold Master (core)
T: Cardio/HIIT Fresh start cardio workout Level III and EC (+double reps, series of 2 sets) + Chopper (HIIT) (x1 set, knees hurt)
W: Combat
Th: Core
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga +/- abs)

EXTRA:
100 toe tap hops
1 min fast bounces


Have a good one bees.

Leaving this banger here, as today's mood asked for metal. Fans of djent, metal and dark Egyptian inspired tunes will enjoy this.

 

[agc]

I found the Power Grip Challenge helpful for improving my dead hang times. It's got clench/unclenches like in your grip training workout but also clench holds.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

I found the Power Grip Challenge helpful for improving my dead hang times. It's got clench/unclenches like in your grip training workout but also clench holds.

Holy shit @agc thank you so much! I was actually wondering if there was a challenge like this but I missed this specific one.
Perfect! This is gonna be my new challenge when I finish the dead hang one tomorrow.

Anyway, bees. How are you all doing?

I am feeling a bit better today after some TLC.
I meditated for almost an hour, if you count the mala beads round, and it definitely helped.

I also did again a Taoist/Buddhist/Hinduist visualisation technique in bed to avoid insomnia, and I can confirm it is extremely effective. Even more than melatonin.
I don't remember if I read it in Osho's book of secrets, or in a specific taoist book, and neurologically speaking it is sound, and it makes sense why it is so effective.
I also explained it to a friend with sleeping issues, and it seems to be working for him, so that's a victory for the week.


Anyway. Business.


Drifter
(week 04.05.2026)
Ch. Dead Hang Challenge (day >>>29<<<), (Next challenge coming: Power Grip Challenge)
(opt.) 80 side to side backfists
+
M: FBS Back in Action Level I (upper body) + Good morning legs (lower body) + Hollow Hold Master (core)
T: Cardio/HIIT Fresh start cardio workout Level III and EC (+double reps, series of 2 sets) + Chopper (HIIT) (x1 set, knees hurt)
W: Combat Lightning Strike level II + EC (HIIT Combat) + 2 minutes of Ginga and basic Esquiva (to cool down)
Th: Core
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga +/- abs)

EXTRA:
Shaolin morning flow
Grip training workout
3 sets of Wushu/Snake style planks (count of 10 per set).
Qigong cool down (after my usual stretching post workout).

Banger of the day (darksynth/synthwave).

 

[CODawn]

I also did again a Taoist/Buddhist/Hinduist visualisation technique in bed to avoid insomnia, and I can confirm it is extremely effective. Even more than melatonin.
I don't remember if I read it in Osho's book of secrets, or in a specific taoist book, and neurologically speaking it is sound, and it makes sense why it is so effective.
I also explained it to a friend with sleeping issues, and it seems to be working for him, so that's a victory for the week.

Would you mind sharing this technique?

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

Would you mind sharing this technique?

No problem! If you do it, let me know if it helps. No pressure if it doesn't!
The technique is not even mine, but I'm surprised it's not more normalised.


Basically, once you’re in bed, you watch your day like a movie in the third person, but with a specific consideration: you start from right now/the present (the moment when you're in bed before going to sleep) and work backward.

You visualize the scene you just finished (like getting into bed) watching "yourself" do it from start to finish in forward motion.

Then, you "jump" back to the scene before that, like brushing your teeth, and watch that play out normally too.

You keep leap-frogging backward through the day’s "clips" until you reach the moment you woke up.

Neurologically, it’s actually pretty smart because it mimics how the brain naturally prunes memories and processes stress while we sleep.
I assume starting the process whilst awake- and in this leap-frogging motion, which is not the usual way we tend to think about/over events- kind of puts the brain into "sleep mind declutter mode" or probably makes the brain tune into theta waves or something .

The trick is to stay as a detached observer.
If you start cringing at something you said or getting stressed/worried again, just imagine you're a director watching an actor on a screen.

Don't worry if you have "memory gaps" or if you pass out halfway through, I think that just means your nervous system has finally relaxed and you've processed the day and were ready to release it.

It’s not about being perfect or judging yourself. It’s just a way to "un-do" the momentum of the day so you aren't carrying all that mental clutter into your dreams.

 

[LiteraryMatcha]

bees.
Quick log entry of the day. At least for now.

I might edit to add more things later, or not. Mal sehen.


Drifter
(week 04.05.2026)
Ch. Dead Hang Challenge day 30. Challenge completed.
Power Grip Challenge day >>>1<<<.
(opt.) 20 bridge gaps
+
M: FBS Back in Action Level I (upper body) + Good morning legs (lower body) + Hollow Hold Master (core)
T: Cardio/HIIT Fresh start cardio workout Level III and EC (+double reps, series of 2 sets) + Chopper (HIIT) (x1 set, knees hurt)
W: Combat Lightning Strike level II + EC (HIIT Combat) + 2 minutes of Ginga and basic Esquiva (to cool down)
Th: Core Express abs ( + EC) + 2 move abs (+ EC)
F: FBS
Sa: Cardio/HIIT
Su: Rest (optional: Stretch/Yoga +/- abs)

EXTRA:
5 Minute Mobility Workout
Have a good one, bees! Almost weekend!

Song of the day: Basically a folk-rock german band (d'Artagnan) making a collab with a spanish folk-rock band (Mago de Oz), singing in German and Spanish about a french novel (The Musketeers), with the addition of scottish/irish/gallego bagpipes.

 

[Anek]

Congrats!!