Ah, running… So good.
I’m not sure what it is that makes me love running so much. I don’t even mind doing it in the pouring rain – sometimes it’s even nicer like that. It does far more for me than just provide physical benefit.
I just went for my first run this morning in God-only-knows how long. I have been just dying to find more ways to work out… the video I bought is awful and I’ve had some trouble fitting it all in. And while big-man is no longer working out of town, it seems he will be working 12 hours a day for the next 6 weeks or so… with no days off.
So this morning I called my amazing mother in law (hereafter refered to as AMIL) to rescue me (again) and managed to eek out a 45 minute run in the rain while she walked mini-man around the neighborhood (hey, exercise is great for him too!) I was actually impressed that I was able to run for so long given how long it’s been, but it was like a million stresses all faded away instantly, and it was just me and my ipod.
When I’m running I feel like the person I want to be.
I’m strong, and healthy; a lean fighter. My mind and body both somehow recharge while my breathing plays a rhythm in my head. I feel joy and freedom, as if I’m doing something God intended me to do and I feel a little sad for those who can’t use their bodies in this way. I feel more energetic and better equipped to handle the challenges life throws at me. I feel peace.
Now that big-man will be home (and exhausted) in the evenings, I think I may just have to take a night or two each week and run after mini-man is in bed and big-man is passed out on the couch. And maybe my AMIL will continue to oblige a weekly Saturday morning jaunt through the neighborhood.
I wonder if it’s poor form to run to and from church on Sundays? It would mean I’m not really dressed appropriately (or clean) during the service, but I would be able to get in more run time that way. Besides, the bible even mentions running:
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. [Hebrews 12:1 ESV]
It must be okay then. Guess I’ll find out tomorrow…
Why run?
- Calories burned
- Increased cardiovascular health
- It’s free; you just need some good shoes
- You can do it anywhere
- You can always go at your own pace
- Each time is different
- You can use speed and duration to vary workouts
- It works your whole body
- It’s good for the soul
What do you love about running?
5 Comments
Good for you. Your running does not only make you fit. It also make your spiritual life active. Keep it up! :)
Here here!!! Running is very good for the soul!!
Michelle, it's great to hear you are running! Personally, I can't run. As much as I consider myself active and healthy and I loooove sports.. I just can't run, I can't do it. I totally respect you for doing that!
There's nothing like getting up in the morning to get moving and get your blood pumping.
You describe it perfectly... when you exercise, it feels like you can do anything and you're exactly the person you want to be. It is such a rewarding feeling.
I don't think there is anything wrong with running to church. In fact, I think God would love and respect that you are invigorating your body and keeping healthy while going to visit Him. I'm sure there's a bathroom in your church you can use to clean up a bit if necessary :)
Anyway, keep it up, that's awesome! :)
Allie
Thanks for the encouragement ladies!
Allie, I can't wait to get out on my board this year... you're right - that does produce the same effect. I've decided I'm going to try and make Monday morning turns part of my weekly routine too... and quite a nice way to start my work week. Just waiting for snow... ;)
"Running was just for me, and my ipod" That's so true!! I love running because its really a time for yourself, and I like it a lot more when you find that sweet pace and you're not even thinking about your running at all, but you're just coasting and thinking about whatever you want to think about.
Check out my blog, http://nukesailor.blogspot.com/2011/08/running-diaries-starting-to-run.html I just started it, but I'm trying to keep up haha.
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