photo by Richard Durnan

I went for my first long run today in about 8 months.  It had been awhile since I have felt that alive and free.  Yes, I am a little sore and tired, but the run itself was therapeutic.  I think people who aren’t runners do not understand the joy of running for long periods of time.  I was running at a moderate pace so I wasn’t overly exerting myself or feeling out of breath, I also had the ability to look around and take in the beautiful scenery and gorgeous day.   I actually found a new trail to run on and it was exhilarating exploring a new location and path.

For me, running really allows me the time to think and relax.  While I am getting in a good workout, I am able to organize my thoughts and plans for the upcoming day or week.  Many of my best ideas for coaching and writing come when I am on my run.  Maybe I should run with a tape recorder because sometimes I forget them when I am finished.  But speaking of forgetting, running also helps me to let go of the daily stress, the argument with my husband, or other things that are bothering me.  

photo by Thomas Hawk

There is a scene in the movie, What Women Want , where Helen Hunt describes the feeling of being one with the road that totally characterizes my feeling of being on a long run.  If you are a runner, next time you watch that movie think about her description of a female runner, “…She’s running. It’s early, it’s quiet. Just the sound of her feet on the asphalt. She likes to run alone. No pressure, no stress. This is the one place she can be herself. Look any way she wants, dress, think any way she wants. No game playing, no rules.”  (Darcy McGuire in What Women Want)  What a wonderful description of the power of the run.

Typically most of my short runs are done with my son in the running stroller, with my neighbor, or my sister.  Those are great runs too, but I am still partial to the long, quiet run alone in those early morning hours.  I don’t run with an IPod because I like the sounds of nature and the thud of my feet on the road.  If you can find some time to go on a long run or walk to clear your mind and get in a good workout, I highly suggest it!