With all the lovely spring weather we’ve been having recently in NYC, I’ve gotten back into one of my favorite activities: running. I used to hate running – too many laps run around fields for various sports! And then, about two years ago, I was feeling antsy after a day of working on my dissertation, so I put on my sneakers and stepped out the door for a run. And I fell in love.
I’ll admit I fell off the running bandwagon for a bit during the fall and winter because I was focusing on my yoga practice and I didn’t have any cold weather gear with me in New York. But now that I’m back to running every other day, I find it compliments my yoga practice perfectly – I need the strengthening, stretching and relaxing benefits of yoga to counter the harshness of running. I think I’ve downloaded every yoga podcast with a “Yoga for Runners” episode out there!
Mental Marathons
Running is not only great exercise, but it’s also important for my mental health. My morning runs are my “me” time – I only have to think about myself during them. And, as my breathing and steps become rhythmic, it also becomes meditative, and allows me time to think through life’s problems. Plus, it’s a great way to challenge myself and see what I’m capable of.
Sprinting $ense
And the best part of running? It’s cheap! Sure, there are plenty of high-tech gadgets and gear out there, but all you really need are a pair of running shoes. Heck, it can even be free if you’re brave enough to try barefoot running.
So, if you’re looking to enjoy some spring weather, get into shape, or just blow off some steam, why not lace up your trainers and go for a run? Of course, running’s not for everyone. If it’s not your cup of tea, what exercise do you prefer?
Katharine Albritton is a writer and art market specialist. Follow the art market with her at 360 Degrees of Art and follow her on Twitter.
3 comments:
Perfect post for me, as I am returning to running (okay...it will probably be more walking) after a month or so hiatus. Ouch! I've prepped the past couple of days with oodles of yoga.
I am in the same boat. I haven't been running in about 2 months after pushing myself a little too hard. I think I will try your advice of doing just yoga for a couple of days, then taking it easy with a nice "walk-jog" as I like to call it.
@TheAnalyst - ouch indeed! definitely take it slow. I've been doing intervals of walking and running a lot to get back into the swing of it and it seems to be going pretty well right now. Of course, I broke my toe two weeks ago (not running related), so that's been slowing down my progress.
@Christine - I gave myself some horrible shin splints after pushing myself too hard, so I totally understand. I am a huge fan of the "walk-jog"!
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