Off days.

Some days are just off days. Everything seems impossible. My helicopters are weak. Climbing is a struggle. Even simple spins feel awkward. It's easy to just shrug and throw in the towel (or shoes, as the case may be), but I've come to realize that i'm just being lazy and taking the easy way out.
I heard a writer on NPR not too long ago say that even when he can't think of the next word, let alone the next sentence, he forces himself to sit down and just get something on the paper, even if it's not any good. The process and routine is important.
Now, as an aerialist it can be dangerous to push yourself too much. These are the times when injuries happen, and you can end up busted, looking back on the moment and wondering what you were thinking. But I refuse to let that be an excuse to just sigh and walk away. Even if I don't feel up to the more acrobatic moves, I'm still going to practice. Off days are perfect to work on transitions, flow, floor work, making each movement a statement. I don't want to have any loose limbs- every move needs to be purposeful and pretty.
So I spent this morning trying to perfect my transitions. I still feel weak and wish I could do more, but I came away with some improvements.