My affair with outdoor running started in my senior year in high school, when I was overweight, and decided to give running a shot. From the get go, it just felt right, on all levels, mind and body- being in motion – being a part of nature. The feeling of euphoria that overcame me after each run, was second to none. I remember often wondering: “How is it possible that after completing a one hour run, and being completely exhausted, I feel so good.” True sense of experiencing an emotional Nirvana.
The “love story” was interrupted in my 30’s, when running was knocked off the priority list. Dealing with school, developing career, and starting a family, fully consumed my existence. And so, many moons later, as life happens, I found myself in late 40’s as a classic case of being a “couch potato”. Fully depleted of energy. Light bulbs were flashing… I knew that I must do something to avoid the inevitable grave destination I was speeding towards.
With my back against the wall, I started to scan what worked for me in my youth, and the rest is history. True example of a renewed love affair filled with tears and plenty of sweat.
Here are some thoughts that come to mind when asking myself: “What made you stick with outdoor running for all these years?” Because:
1. It’s when I get to feel like a kid
2. It’s when my thinking subsides and my mind regains its clarity
3. It’s when I don’t need to achieve any goals
4. It’s when I feel stronger and alive
5. It’s when I get to spend time with myself
6. It’s when I learn about myself
7. It’s when I get to forgive myself
8. It’s when I get to say “Thank You” to myself
9. It’s when I get to love myself just the way I am
If you are wondering if you will be able to have the same experience as mine? As a fellow human, my answer is a resounding Yes. Irrespective of the physical and mental shape you are in, make a decision to be proactive and take charge of your mental and physical reality. No one is coming to push you out the door. It’s all up to you.
