Atlanta Run TEAM

Running isn’t always about putting one foot in front of the other.  Sometimes it’s about letting go of your day, or clearing your head, or opening your mind.  Sometimes it’s the fresh air we crave and other times it’s the friendship.  Running is very much a physical sport, but the mental and emotional benefits outweigh most any other activity I’ve tried.  As they say, running is cheaper than therapy.  And, if I had to guess, likely more therapeutic.

Two weeks and 4 days ago (yes, I’m counting,) I injured my leg during a run and I haven’t been able to run since.  It’s been killing me.  The cooler temps, the longer days and the scent of honeysuckles and gardenias in the air have been taunting me.  I’ve come close, several times, to slipping on my Ghost 4s and hitting the road.  Alas, I’m giving it at least 3 more days - doctor’s orders - before I attempt to run again.  The thing I miss the most about running - and trust me, there are many things - is that feeling of utter exhaustion at the very end of a long, hard run.  The feeling of being used up and wiped out.  Physically, it’s draining, but it reminds me of what my body is capable of when I push it beyond its comfort zone.  Mentally and emotionally, it’s cathartic.  I feel like all negative, questionable, heavy thoughts in my head come pouring out of me in the form of sweat, and I’m thoroughly cleansed, emptied out and freshened up.  I can start anew, with clear head and light heart.  THOSE are the feelings I miss.

Us women deal with a lot, on a daily basis, from family to work to household commitments to finances and everything in between.  We need an outlet.  Running is my outlet.  When the weight of the world starts bearing down on my 4’10” frame, I grab my iPod and hit the pavement.  There is little that a good run and a killer soundtrack can’t cure.