Lessons on how Running has changed my life for the better.
I began my running journey in 2014. Before then, I would run here and there. I ran a full marathon in 2005, beyond unprepared. I did all the things a runner is not expected to do a few weeks before a marathon. I got new running shoes, instead of wearing the ones I trained in. I wore a tee shirt, instead of a light, moisture sweat locking top. I didn’t train as much I needed to leading up to the 26.2 miles. Since I wasn’t properly prepared, I lost my toenail, there was a severe sun burn (forgot to wear sunscreen),got chafing in places I still cringe when I think about (should of tried vaseline), several blisters on my feet, and not to mention, all the amazing leg soreness post marathon vibes. I swore I’d never run again.
I did. I ran my first half marathon in 2015 and trained way better than my full marathon. Since then, I’ve ran several 5k, 10ks and more half marathons.
I know what you’re probably thinking, why on earth would I want to go back to what sounds like, I don’t know, torture? Why put myself in that type of pain? Well, glad you asked.
Running has changed my life in so many positive ways.
It has made me feel challenged, strong and happier even on days I’ve dreaded.
Here are my top lessons I’ve learned on my outdoor runs/ marathons:
1) It helps me have clarity
There are days when I feel blah, unmotivated, stagnant, and other days more myself, but I just make it a habit to just go for a run on those specific days because I know it is when I need it the most. Even if it’s 2 miles and It always clears my mind and helps me re focus on what matters.
2) It challenges me.
Sometimes we can trick our mind to believe what we think we are capable of but, we can do a little or a lot more. Running has proven to me, that I can push myself more even when I feel tired or want to give up, I can always go further and finish strong.
3) It helps me feel stronger.
Running has helped me build my strength in my legs and in my mind.
4) It boosts my mood.
Ok, maybe not at the beginning of my runs but during and post runs is when I feel I can be a nicer human because I got my run in. It helps decrease my stress.
There’s a quote I love that goes “More Sweat, Less Stress.” I couldn’t agree more.Running helps me with my stress levels and let go of anything that’s making me feel crappy.
5) Embracing the journey.
Through the years I’ve learned to not be so hard on my pace, or focusing on the finish line. Yes, there will be days when they are not the best, the slower runs, the challenging runs, the unexpected weather, injuries etc and that’s ok too. I remind myself there is a season for everything, the good and the bad and in the end it will all be for the better.
6) It helps me make healthier eating choices.
I become more conscious on what I put in my body when I’m training or just running for fun, yes, I run for fun. When I began my running journey, I was partying, eating late nights junk food and drinking the night before my runs. I remember feeling beyond crappy during my runs. Lethargic, nauseas, bloated. When I eat good, I feel good and when I’m fueling my body with healthy food, I have better runs.
7) To be present.
Running has helped me become more present. Enjoy my runs with music or no music has been therapeutic for me. Taking it one step at a time.
8) Helped with my self love journey . It helped me learn more about myself and has taught me to appreciate, be confident and love my body even on times when I’m not at my best or healthiest.
9) Connect with wonderful humans.
In 2018, I joined a running community. I’ve met amazing people some who have become my really good friends. Some of my best running experiences have been through running with them.Joining a running community has been one of the best decisions I’ve done. If you live near Los Angeles area,or are traveling near that area, feel free to join us on a run with the Grand Running Club community.
