What's the opposite of the runner's high?

Because that's what I've got now. And it ain't pretty.

You thought pregnancy hormones were bad? Then you haven't been around a cranky post-race runner who can't run at all. For a week.

I was prepared for the taper before the big half marathon, but no one mentioned how hard the week after the race would be. I even had one running friend tell me I'd be on a post-race high all week.

What's wrong with you people? How about a little notice?

Thankfully, I'm here for you. Come closer to the goddess, I mean, chica.

Here's how to cope with your endorphin-less life:

* Buy shoes. OK, that's just a general rule for some of you, but spending an hour at the local running store trying on half a dozen different shoes made my day. I even walked out with a pair of new Hoka One Ones. They're incredibly cushy and my orthotic inserts fit great. But I can't take them for a run quite yet.

Now I'm depressed again.

* Support other runners. Generally a good rule anyway, but incredibly rewarding to focus on someone other than yourself for once. Like me, for example. Read my blog. Share my blog. Comment on my blog. But only so you can feel better.

OK, so maybe it's not about me despite my desperate cry for help. I did spend some time today sharing tips with a friend who's running her first marathon, sending her tips and a Runner's World magazine article or two. That was fun and it reminded me that pretty soon that'll be me again, training for a race. (And we're back to talking about me. Phew!)

* Plan what you'll do when you can run again. In my case, this week is heavy on yoga, stretching and doing the exercises I learned while at physical therapy for the aforementioned injury.

Boring? Yes. But it'll help me build my core and stability, so definitely a good investment.

* Book a sports massage. I get mine on Thursday night. Will let you know how that goes.

* Spend some time thinking about where you've been...and where you want to go. I have been pinning my race bibs on a bulletin board in my office. It helps remind me that there's life outside the office...a life full of fun things. Like running. Or not doing yoga.

I did take a moment to look at the board and think about my first 5K and all the races in between. It reminded me that I've survived other periods of not-running.

* Get out of the house. We're having beautiful weather here in Michigan this week. I haven't been able to enjoy it, but perhaps you can. Bike, walk or go swimming. Cross-training's supposed to be good for your running and it's even said to help avoid injury.

At least, I went out to Home Depot tonight to buy stain for our front porch and deck.

I have to say, the new Hokas look beautiful under the fluorescent lights...

 Enough about me, what do you think about my blog? How do you cross train? Did other runners warn you about the week after your big race?