The off days are about two things for me.
First, separating myself from being a hockey player for at least a few hours.
Second, making sure I’m ready to go the moment I wake up the next day for practice or a morning skate.
Balance matters.
Here’s an example of what that can look like.
I woke up around 10 a.m. this morning. Not ideal for me. Normally I like to wake up around 8 or earlier whether I’m tired or not. This was a travel situation though, so I let it happen.
First thing I do is hydrate. Real salt and lemon in water. Every single morning, but especially on days away from the rink and the access we have to different electrolytes.
Caitlyn made me a light breakfast. On off days I stay away from coffee or caffeine. I’m not sure if this is scientifically sound, but I think of it as a reset from the coffees I’ve had on game days or at the rink with the guys. If I want something later in the day I’ll have tea.
After that I like to move.
Boston is a great city for walking. The Common, Back Bay, Charlestown, there’s always something to see. Rain or shine I’m usually out there wandering around.
If I’m alone I’m almost always on the phone with family. Mom, Dad, my sister, Caitlyn’s family, friends from home. Catching them up on what’s been going on and hearing about their lives.
That’s one of the best ways for me to separate from the game for a couple hours.
In the fall or spring I try to get into nature more. That’s important for a Colorado guy.
But honestly, my favorite way to completely forget I’m a hockey player is going to the movies.
Caitlyn and I have seen a lot of them together. Nothing says “I’m not a hockey player right now” quite like a large Coke and a bucket of buttery popcorn.
No matter how I spend the time away though, the off day always circles back to tomorrow.
Not worrying about it… just preparing for it.
Body maintenance is a big part of that. Hot Epsom salt baths, back venom, stretching, yoga through my sister Ana’s channel, movement. Whatever the body needs that day.
If I feel like I need more, I can always head into the rink for treatment, sauna, or a cold plunge.
I do miss the outdoor cold plunge I had in my old backyard.
Nutrition is another non-negotiable.
Three real meals. Healthy snacks if I can find the appetite that day. Protein. Vegetables. Fresh fruit or juice.
Then sleep.
I’m an early-to-bed guy. It’s a little harder when you wake up at 10 a.m. like I did today, but eventually I wind things down. Tea. Talking with Caitlyn while she actually reads her book and I pretend to read mine.
Our bedroom is for sleeping and nothing else.
Most nights I can’t wait to get my seven hours. Usually it’s more, but with the schedule being what it is I think seven is a manageable goal no matter what.
Balance.
Staying light mentally regardless of what happened in the last game.
That’s what off days are for in a long season.
I love them.
Thanks to all the new subscribers. This is very new and I’m still finding my voice so let’s see if we can keep the ball rolling. I truly enjoy writing these for whoever reads it.
❤️
Hoặc