Spring has announced itself in all its majestic glory. Signalling a change in season, the snow and ice are giving away. I always feel like a weight has been lifted from my shoulders at this time of year. I’ve survived another cold Alberta winter. It’s a time for new beginnings and for fresh starts. It’s a time for reflection.
What I do in the spring often sets the tone for my running season and the months ahead. I believe making a conscious effort to take care of our bodies – mind and soul – after the bleak winter can do wonders.
Nurture your running soul
1. Run at Sunrise Nothing beats predawn running. Yes, it’s challenging to get out of bed but once you get moving, it’s a beautiful thing. The solace of the empty streets and calm before the morning rush will do wonders for your soul. Other benefits include getting your run over with and it allows you to be alone with your thoughts.
2. Run at Sunset A busy, stressful day can be undone with an after work/dinner run. A good run will put things in perspective and allow you to unwind. In the winter, it is dark early so the beauty of night-time running is new again.
3. Eat Well, Drink More I don’t believe in detox fads because our internal organs have a handle on this. What I do believe in is stop eating the crap and get back to eating whole, plant-based dishes. It’s also a good time to up the ante on your hydration. I promise that extra cup of water or two will make you feel much better.
4. Spend time with happy people I am inspired and motivated when I run with positive people, especially new runners. They are always so passionate and excited about setting a new goal or entering a race. Runners are generally happy people so seek them out. Negativity is a buzz kill and nobody ever wins.
5. Smile One of my favourite sayings? Use your smile to change the world. Smile when you are sad and smile when you are happy. You may have had a crap run and the last thing you want to do is smile. Do it. It’s proven that you will feel better immediately.
How do you nurture your running soul?
There is nothing better than running at sunrise! I’m a morning runner and I see a lot of sunrises. It NEVER gets old. I always feel so accomplished and inspired after a sunrise run.
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home recently posted…Are You Brave Enough?