Why Run?

One of the places I used to run [Image]

I started my love affair with running when I was about 16. My house backed up to a national wildlife preserve and there were so many trails to choose from. I loved the isolated freedom that came from running down those trails, the amazing views, the wildlife. It was completely invigorating.




Then the *parents* put an end to my love of long runs. *Parents* being coaches. "Long distance running weakens your fast twitch muscles." "It will mess up your vertical." "Volleyball is anaerobic, not aerobic." Etc. Etc.

Another place I used to run...such a rough life:) [Image]

So I had to keep my love for the long runs a secret. I would do it in the off-season, when I wasn't surrounded by coaches and players, maybe 2 months out of the year.

Now, I don't have to hide it. I can run every day and not worry about losing inches off my vertical. It's amazing. But I know a lot of people who think I am crazy, to love running so much. I have a lot of friends who hate it. In fact, I'm pretty sure just about all my friends see running as a chore.

It's no accident that made me love to run. I'm not programmed differently, or unique. I just made running into something I looked forward to by following a few simple rules.

1.  Run in a beautiful place

I don't do treadmills. Like ever. About once a year I think, "Maybe this time I'll like it." Nope, still hate it. I get bored in about 2 minutes. I'm annoyed that I'm not actually going anywhere. The TV's they have distract me to the point where I usually end up almost falling off the thing. It's just not a fun experience.

My new running spot [Image]

For me, running outside is the way to go. It's always a little different and you feel like you're getting somewhere, even if you are actually just running in a big circle. The fresh air is invigorating. In the city it makes me focus so much more to avoid hitting people or getting hit by a car or biker. I don't even run with music anymore: I let the city be my background. 

2. Take a mini-vacation

Running=meditation. When I run, I clear my mind of the daily grind. Some days are better than others, but I always feel mentally and emotionally refreshed after running.

The Huffington Post has an article about how to meditate while running. Its kinda cool. It talks about being aware of your body when you run, thinking about your breathing, your arm movements, your steps. I usually end up focusing on my feet-probably because I'm a klutz. The author,  Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, goes on to mention other benefits and focuses for meditation while running. It's a pretty sweet article for those who are interested.

3. Dress Weather Appropriate

A good friend of mine once said I could never live north of the Mason-Dixon line. Not for cultural, social, or any other normal reason. She said I couldn't do it because I would simply freeze to death. Considering I have lived in Chicago and Connecticut, I'm pretty sure this is false, but I sure as you know what do not like to be cold.

If I am not dressed properly for my run, I will not want to move. This cuts both ways. When I ran in the hot Southern California summers, I would be down to a sports bra and shorts, and I would still be overheating. In the cold of the North, I'm all about sweats, gloves, and hats. There is just nothing fun about freezing your fingers off on a jog. Not to mention I get super itchy whenever I sweat in the freezing cold. I know gross...it's awful.

4. Gloat

Like Barney, but in my head. Because no one else actually want to hear that stuff [Image]

When I finish a run, I always give myself a few minutes to bask in my own awesomeness. I like to give myself some positive feedback, like "You just ran 5 miles more today than the average American." or "If there is ever a pack of hyenas chasing me, I'm pretty sure I can outlast them now." Stupid stuff. But mind over matter truly does work. Each time I give myself positive thoughts about finishing a run, it makes it that much easier to do it again. Not to mention I start the day off feeling awesome about myself.