This January marks 10 years since I've been a runner. That seems like such a long time but for me, it's gone by in the blink of an eye! This running thing and I have had so many amazing adventures along the way, it's definitely safe to say that it has helped shape and mold who I am today.
Running has helped me better appreciate the simple things
A gorgeous sunrise...a beautiful sunset...I've seen a lot of them thanks to running. Surrounded by nature on a summer afternoon, the sounds of crickets and shoes hitting the pavement...my favorite. Running with my little guy in the stroller in front of me...one of the best things in the world. How about a pain free run? Yep, those are appreciated too. The gift of the ability to run? Yes and yes! From the PR's and small victories to the injuries and low points...all of these moments can been appreciated because of running.
Running helps me clear my mind
If there's a lot going on in my life, I can always tell if going for a run will help "fix" it. I've heard other runners talk about "saving the world" while out for a run and I totally get it - there's just something about a good run where you can think through and sort out your troubles. It almost always seems better in the end. Running definitely helped me deal and cope with the decline in health and loss of my grandfather and I'm so grateful I had running to lean on. (My family, too...but you get what I'm saying.)
Running has led me to meet some amazing people
My running group members whom I miss dearly - we definitely formed a special bond and I love seeing my friends out and about. A lot have joined Orangetheory, so it's fun running into them there. During the 8 years spent with GoRun, I definitely formed some bonds and friendships that I'll cherish forever!
Above all else, running has taught me patience, helped me grow as a person, and taught me to better appreciate the gift of life itself. I am grateful, so very grateful.
Today, I'm also linking up with KookyRunner and Zenaida for Tuesday Topics!
Running has brought so many new friends into my life and yes taken me on some amazing adventures
ReplyDeleteSo very true!
DeleteI always say that running helps me to "burn off the crazy"! :) Of course, there are so many benefits from running. I could write a whole post about it. Maybe I will!
ReplyDeleteYES! That's exactly it for me! I can always tell if I need to go out and get in a run because of my mood!
DeleteRunning has made me a better person! Right now I'm struggling with running and so I guess running is teaching me to be patient. It's a hard, humbling lesson to learn.
ReplyDeleteI've been there too...it definitely sucks.
DeleteI agree with everything you said. Especially, appreciating the sunrises/sunsets and all the sounds of nature ;-)
ReplyDeleteYes! I just love nature early in the morning!
DeleteRunning definitely has me setting my alarm for #runrise runs -- the views are worth it! I love being out in the fresh air, especially when the rest of my day will be behind a desk.
ReplyDeleteSo worth it! It's a great way to start the day for sure!
DeleteTotally agree with everything that you mentioned. I often have some of my best "thinking sessions" when I'm running.
ReplyDeleteI have formed new friendships through running, some that I keep in touch with on FB & IG but haven't seen since my 2nd marathon over 10 years ago.
ReplyDeleteIsn't that amazing?! I also have some facebook friends like that! :)
DeleteI like being able to have some alone time. Running in the morning gives me time to think. Or sometimes I just run and enjoy the view.
ReplyDeleteYes to all of this! :)
DeleteI started running shortly after you, and I remember your early days of running with a group and how much fun you guys had...I set out to find my own group and you were right, it was fun with more people!
ReplyDeleteOddly enough, I had your running group in mind while writing this post and today's post! I so wish something like that would start back up here again! I definitely miss it!
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