Welcome to my 2nd edition of Sunday Run Day!
This morning, JP and I kicked of the day with an easy 6.2 miles. It’s safe to say that 8 weeks ago, JP didn’t find anything easy about running 6 miles! It’s great to see how far he has come since today, after the run, he said that he felt like he could have kept going! This is great news especially since we’re running our half marathon up in Philly in exactly one week from today.
Today marks the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States. So many lives were lost in the planes and towers and others were lost as heros trying to save others. In honor of those who fell on September 11th, 2001, I want to ramble a little bit about how running can bring relief whether it be from grieving, stress, work, etc.
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| This is a memorial down the street from our house in front of the volunteer fire department. I believe this is a beautiful way to remember the brave souls we lost on that fateful day 10 years ago. God bless America. God bless our soldiers. Thank you to all who serve us whether it be the armed forces, police department or fire department. Remember how blessed we are today. |
It is so easy to focus your emotions on food whether it be eating too much or not eating at all. It is the easiest and most natural thing for people to turn to, hence the term comfort food. Instead of making you feel better, in the long run, turning to food impairs you physically and hurts your mentally. Running is a great way to focus negative energy into something that will help you both physically and emotionally. Once you are able to get into the zone, the stresses and pressures of everyday life begin to leave your mind. You have the chance to escape your grievances and focus on just you and the pavement. Leaving negative thoughts and feeling behind draws your mind to a clearer perspective. Like any type of exercise, running releases endorphins which are natural feel good chemicals that elevate your mood and tend to relieve pain, internally and externally.
Personally, I have found running to be an amazing stress reliever especially after a long day at work. I will admit, after working for 8+ hours, sometimes the last thing I want to do is go for a run. It can be even harder to get motivated if I’m in a bad mood from it. Despite the resistance I give myself, I’ve always found that I feel a million times better after I run or work out. Being active really does allow your brain to release negative thoughts whether it be from grief, work, family, society or any other form of stress. Next time you are drawn towards that comfort cupcake {not that I don’t even indulge} think about turning to running or any form of fitness. It will improve you mental and physical state where as food does the exact opposite.
If you have any questions about running for stress relief or how to get motivated, feel free to ask! I love talking to new people especially about fitness! How do you conquer your stress? What does it take for you to get motivated when you’re in a mental slump? Don’t forget, I’m still open to all ideas for my Sunday Run Day posts!
Until next time…
With love and God bless,
Amy
