Right now I am seriously high on life. (I have just taken a shower after going to the gym, being out on a run, and working in the yard.) It felt SO GOOD to get back to the High Bridge Trail.
I can truthfully say that running is the best thing I know of. It makes me joyful and has raised my confidence level through the roof. Now when I see myself in front of a mirror I have to smile when looking at myself. I am fit!
Why do I love running?
- It makes me tired and drained but in the best way (I did 6 miles today).
- It helps challenge me.
- It helps digestion.
- It gives me a tan.
- It puts me to bed at night with a good tired.
- It gives me time to listen to audiobooks or Youtube talks.
- It allows me to think my thoughts.
- Seeing the sky.
- Stress relief.
- Feeling like I have done something good for my body.
- Improved fitness level.
- Endorphins.
- It gives me a complete disconnect from the (always) connected world.
- I LOVE how I feel after -- sweaty!
- I breath better.
- I sleep better.
- I feel more grateful for the body God has given me.
- The mental health benefits.
- Moving my legs.
- I feel a sense of accomplishment after almost every run.
- The community. Runners are such nice people!
I also love going to the gym. Sure, I lift because I want to become stronger in view of this summer's climb. But the act of lifting itself is SO enjoyable! It makes me happy because I am getting stronger. My body feels younger than it should. I feel super blessed that I get to do this.
I write all this simply for what it's worth. Everyone is different, and the key to exercise is finding what works for you. But in order to do that you have to try new things. Also, it take time to fall into a groove. One thing I have definitely realized is that fitness takes patience. It takes patience to build up your muscles and endurance. It takes time to recover from your activities. It takes time to train for hard things. But one thing is guaranteed. If you put in the time and listen to and respect your God-given body, great things can happen.
Have a wonderful evening!