Why I Run So Far

Aside from wanting to know how I run so far, people are always wondering WHY I run so far.

It’s a valid question, I suppose. Unless you’re a runner and already understand.

Running isn’t just exercise. In fact, it’s probably less about exercise for me than it is about what it represents and how it makes me feel.

When I go for a run, I go to clear my mind. I go to feel free and let go of my responsibilities. I go because when I run, for those moments I can focus on just one task.

I juggle all day long. Not only am I a single mom of two kids, but I’m also a singer-songwriter, author and freelancer.

I wear many hats, I do many things. And throughout my day I’m usually doing 100 different things.

Running allows me to let that all go and just focus on one thing. And that, is incredibly relaxing, freeing and helpful.

I compare running to meditation. For me, it actually is. It may look differently than typical meditation but I believe the result is the same.

Sometimes I run for speed, sometimes I’m preparing for a race. But most of the time, I am running for my mind, body and soul.

When people hear that I run, usually the first question is what race am I preparing for? Sometimes there is a race coming up that I have indeed signed up for, but unlike some people who need the races for motivation to stay on track with their exercise goals. For me, I sign up for a race for the camaraderie with the other runners, the sense of accomplishment and the medal.

Yes, I run for the bling. Why? Because it’s fun!

That being said, I don’t usually sign up for races. Maybe once per year.

I don’t run for the races.

I run because I love it. And I run far, because I love that too.

Running a long time or long distance puts things into perspective for me. It helps me solve problems. In fact, going for a run usually SOLVES my problems.

What do I mean by that?

Well, have you ever been in a horrible mood but didn’t know why?

Running usually gets me out of the mood fast and improves my day. It helps put me back on track in life.

When I first started running, I did so because I was dealing with a difficult time in my life. My heart was broken. My life derailed and I was in a huge depression.

I started running on a whim. And it changed my life.

Even though I was still dealing with all of the difficult things, I found that running helped me manage all of them and actually do so with a smile on my face, most of the time.

I have been known to cry during a run. Don’t worry, no one ever sees that. I typically run at night, and I like running where there aren’t a lot of people.

Despite feeling alone at that time, being alone and running, that solitude actually became helpful. A much needed retreat away from my stresses. Away from those who drain my energy.

Crying during a run is also incredibly cleansing. Like crying during acupuncture. It’s a biological response you cannot control. But one that helps on so many levels.

Running long distances during my depression actually helped me get out of it. Not on its own, but it was the beginning domino that gave me the boost I needed to make the changes that were necessary to break free from it.

I am no longer depressed. But I still run. It became something I love to do. It puts a bigger smile on my face than was there before I left.

And depression aside, there will always be stressors in life. Everyday. And it is important to have a release from them.

For me, exercise in general, and running is that release.

I remember just the other day stresses were piling on me on that particular day. Coming out of nowhere, one thing after another.

I went for a run. And when I returned I was able to handle each individual fire as if they were nothing more than a baby candle flame.

So why do I run so far? Why do I put my body through something so strenuous and sometimes detrimental? Why have I become the stereotypical “crazy runner”?

Because I LOVE IT!

It helps me return to me. It puts life into perspective and keeps me healthy in more ways than one.

Physically healthy, as long as I listen to my body and don’t overdo it. And I make sure to stretch and rest too. And mentally healthy, as it is a wonderful form of meditation.

Not only does running take care of my bare minimum cardio each week, but it adds endorphins that keep my brain chemicals in balance and make me a healthier, happier me.

I run far because with each individual step I feel empowered and strong, unstoppable.

I run far because the farther I run, the more I realize distance is relative and never as far as we think.

The world becomes my oyster. My fears diminished and often reduced to nothing more than an after thought.

My confidence is boosted and my mind works at its highest capacity.

Just to name a few reasons.

Do you run? How far? And Why?

Leave a comment below.

Your friend,

Kat
nurturingyourbody.com