Day Two: She's a Soccer Player Again Because Age is Just a Number

Okay, day two was no joke. Let me paint the picture for you: After the first few sprints, my legs were basically bricks. My lungs? Working overtime like I had just run a marathon. I have never run a marathon so I am just guessing here. And my body? Oh, it was definitely letting me know that a ten-year break from the game is no walk in the park. But here’s the thing—I’m back, and the muscle memory? Slowly but surely, it started to click back into place. Like actually, I could do toe touches and they made sense..?

At first, I was doubting myself, like, is this even gonna come back? But as the session went on, I felt that familiar rhythm. The movements. The sharp decisions. It felt like all those years of training and playing were still there, tucked deep in my body, just waiting to be unleashed again. And that moment of realization was everything. Like, “Okay, I’ve got this.”

But let’s talk about the difference this time around—recovery. I mean, I used to think I could just grind it out, skip a rest day, push through soreness, and be fine. Not anymore. I’ve learned the hard way that recovery is just as important as the hustle on the field. So now, I’m way more intentional about hydration, stretching, and REST. Young me would’ve laughed if you told me rest days were a key to success, but trust me, your body will thank you later. If you’re not treating your muscles right off the field, you’re setting yourself up for a burnout. But let's be honest, I'm still young. I just have to stretch more...

The Real Magic of Training

Now, onto the real magic of training: balance. I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about how to balance my body’s limits with my goals. My ambition is sky-high (duh), but I know that I can’t just throw myself into everything like I’m 15 again. It’s not about maxing out every day; it’s about training smart and listening to what my body’s telling me.

And you know what’s helping? Mindfulness. I’ve started doing some meditation and visualization exercises to help me stay grounded and focused during training—and even off the field. I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure about the whole meditation thing at first, but wow, it’s honestly been a game-changer. I feel calmer, more centered, and way more present, both during practice and in life. And if that mental clarity can help me stay calm under pressure? I’ll take it. I also journal each morning. And no...I am not just spewing out my feelings and emotions, I am writing my daily gratitudes, goals, affirmations. I know mindset is key so might as well put in that work while we're at it.

It’s about training smart and listening to what my body’s telling me.

I Need Community

But let’s talk about the real heart of soccer: the community. One of the biggest surprises for me so far is just how much I’ve missed the team vibe. And I still don't have it back. Now you know I am an introvert so the making friends thing has never been easy for me. But trust me, once I am friends with you, I am loyal. Some call me the mom of the group in the best way possible. There’s nothing like the energy you feel when you’re working with teammates who push you, cheer you on, and have your back. Honestly, that’s what makes it all worth it. The wins, the losses, the sweat—it’s all better when you’re in it together. It reminds me how important it is to surround yourself with people who elevate you, whether it’s teammates, friends, or mentors. They push you through the tough moments and celebrate the little victories along the way.

So yeah, day two was a bit challenging. But it was also an eye-opener. There’s so much more to training than just the physical side—it’s about taking care of yourself, listening to your mind and body, and finding a community that supports you. It’s a balance. And I’m here for it. On to day three!

Let's win,

xx Nani