What Running Is For Me

If you asked me to describe what running means to me I would say healing, gratitude, and freedom. I’m sure running means something different for every runner but let me tell you why those are the first three things that describe running for me.

Healing

Running has healed me in so many ways. I am super-sensitive, and I don’t have the best self-esteem, so I often hear that voice in my head that tells me I’m not good enough, but I was always pretty good at running. It was something that gave me confidence and made me feel strong and capable.

Running has always been there when I needed an escape. It was a healthy way to run away from any emotion that was about to swamp me. It kept my high energy steady, and my emotions calm. I always knew that if I had a problem I could go run it out. After a few miles, my mind would be clear, and I could come up with a solution.

Gratitude

I often feel grateful when I am out running. I am grateful to be healthy enough to do a sport I love, I am grateful that running allows me to interact with a wonderful community of people, and I am grateful for all the stories of grit and inspiration I am able to hear. I am grateful that I can push my limits, and continue to improve, and I am grateful that I can encourage other runners in the hopes that they will enjoy the sport as much as I do. I say thank you at least once during my run.

Freedom

When I start to run I can feel my whole body relax. I allow my mind to clear and listen to what is happening around me. As I run, it feels as if problems and responsibilities are falling behind me. I feel like I can fly.

These are only three things that describe what running is for me. It has helped me physically, but it has also kept me healthy mentally. It is a big factor in my happiness.

Last summer, I tore my meniscus, and although I was lucky to not need an operation, I knew I would not be running for several months. When I told my family what the MRI said, my husband became pale, and said, “Oh, no.” I think he was more worried about living with me when I couldn’t run than anything else. After two months of physical training, my trainer said, “Jen, I think you will be able to run soon.” I almost cried. Today was the first day that I ran three miles without any type of brace, and I will tell you that I have missed my old friend running.