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Monday, February 22, 2010

Finding Where You Left Off

I didn't have the best sleep last night, so when I woke up this morning exhausted, I was pretty certain that my plan for the morning was a no-go. But, after some breakfast and a cup of coffee, I looked longingly out the windows at the brilliant blue sky, the sun bright and warming.

So I went.

In the fall, as a encouragement to help me get back into exercising, we went out and bought a new pair of runners. I paid more for them than I had planned, but when I tried them on, it was like marshmallows had been strapped to my soles. I pronate (my feet turn turn in) and need good arch support. These runners make each step like being on a spring. My back has never loved me so much.

I changed into my workout gear, laced up the runners, and threw my keys, cell phone and iPod into my jacket pockets. Outside, the air was cooler than I expected. Crisp but not cold- perfect for a run.

I walked part way up the street to warm up and then when it felt right, I picked up the pace. Each step cushioned and even, propelling me forward. I ran, finding a rythym with my breathing, relaxing into each movement. After a minute or two, I'd switch to a brisk walk until my heart rate settled and then it was back to running. For the most part I kept a 3 to 1 pace (3 walking, 1 running), which surprised me with how easy it was.

It was only 20 minutes but the time was my own and it was freeing. I hadn't been running in such a long time (2007?!?) and I think more than anything it was about reclaiming something I lost in these last three years. I lost the ability to push myself and at the same time be in tune with my body. With those steps, it was like a cleansing of sorts. When I got back to the apartment, I was tired but also energized.

Having awesome runners didn't hurt either.

8 comments:

tomi said...

I'm looking forward to starting yoga and walking again after my doctor gives me the all-clear in 3 weeks.

Although yoga would be the one on wii fit because I can't be bothered going to lessons ;)

//tomi

*iclw

Kristin said...

Good for you! I pronate too. What type of runners did you get?

"Alone again.... naturally!" said...

Yeah, I would like to know what kind of runners you have too and can the insides come out for orthotics.

areyoukiddingme said...

In about 2 months, it will be warm enough for me to start running again. Can't wait!

It's amazing how 20 minutes of alone time can soothe...

Melis.sa said...

I love those freeing moments. I think I started running when my DD was 4 months old? And even though I didn't really lose any weight it was still nice to get outside and just exist and look at nature and feel my body coming back

IF Optimist, then... said...

Oh, I love that you got out in the beautiful sunshine we had yesterday. I'll tell you what I say to my husband when I am driving and we come upon a beautiful place, "please look extra for me".

Myndi said...

You make me wish I could run. But for the bad knees! Perhaps, at least, I could go for a walk...if only it weren't raining.

It's wonderful you got some wonderful, peaceful time alone, and found something in yourself that you thought had gone missing. :)

MrsSpock said...

I love the me-time I get from exercise- with the added bonus of a mood lift and fibro pain management.