Most people I talk to hate running. The statement I hear most is, ‘I only run when I’m being chased.’ Running is hard, and it’s pretty lame while doing it, but the reward comes when you’re done.
I don’t think anyone enjoys searching for their every breath. Besides, all you have to do is stop what you are doing to get one!
If you run long enough at one time, a peculiar sensation comes over you that is the weirdest thing ever. It stops being hard, and you keep going. It gets easier when you feel like you’re at your most tired. This phenomenon is called runner’s euphoria.
To all non-runners out there, this term may sound ridiculous, but it’s true. The euphoria doesn’t come in the first or second mile or even the third or fourth. Usually around the seven-mile mark, an experienced runner can feel like he might as well go to ten miles, and then he does.
As far as I know, everyone that runs the first couple of miles are hard, and everyone’s body is trying to get you to quit. For most people, your body wins this wrestling match with your mind, and they stop running. The trick is to keep going and for your mind to tell your body that you are in charge. Once done, your body submits and works for you, and you can go as long as you can responsibly go.
I am not saying you can run a marathon every other day because your mind is pushing your body around, but training can take place when your mind is stronger than your body’s will.
Why all this running talk?
Running helps me because it is similar to and a microcosm of life. Dread doing something, do it, glad you did it, no matter if you have success or fail, you are better for it, the day or week is over, wake up and repeat. Doctors say that when you exercise, you are growing the survival instinct part of your brain. People live longer when they exercise!
I would submit that during exercise, it feels like you are going to die right then and there. I have learned, however, that starting my day on a run each day gives me confidence that I am mentally prepared for whatever comes my way. I remember as a teenager sleeping as long as I possibly can to get out the door on time with 30 seconds to spare after my commute. All of us who are parents know that doesn’t work.
Nowadays, I love having plenty of time in the morning and I am mentally ready for my day. I am not teaching anybody anything. You all know all of this; this is just what I do!
What do you usually plan to accomplish to prepare for your day?
