Some people run to clear their head. I've heard it described as a time to get away from it all and just be left alone to think.
Me - sometimes I run as kind of a buffer. I run when I anticipate that someone or some situation is going to stress me out. I do this in the hopes that the goodness that is released during the run will protect me from feeling the frustration of the stressful situation. Now, at first I felt like this was not a good reason to run, and that it was more of an avoidant defense mechanism than anything. However, I did once hear on an episode of Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition that exercising more regularly does indeed help to lower your stress (rather than dealing with your stressors first and working out once you're not stressed anymore). What they actually said was, "You cannot wait until the stress goes away...your ability to deal with your stress will become better if you can get more fit." GOLDEN WORDS OF WISDOM (which also make me feel like my way is wise, lol).
But, the bottom line of this post is this: whether you're running away from something or running to clear your head, just run! Or if you don't like running, walk. Or swim, or dance - just move! You gotta find a way to get these negative energies out of your systems and exude positive vibes as much as you can!
I also wanted to share my current running playlist, just in case you need to mix up your workout music.
1. "It's Time" by Imagine Dragons
2. "Ho Hey" by The Lumineers
3. "I Will Wait" by Mumford & Sons
4. "Young Blood" by The Naked and Famous
5. "Tongue Tied" by Grouplove
6. "Shake It Out" by Florence and the Machine
7. "Domino" by Jessie J
8. "Crazy Girl" by Eli Young Band
9. "Springsteen" by Eric Church
10. "Some Nights" by Fun.
So, yep! Those are the essentials, I add to it and subtract from it often. And, yes, it's kind of an eclectic mix of genres, and that's the way I like it. Hopefully SOMETHING in there fits your fancy!
One Last Little Thing!
And, while we're on the note of playlists and gettin' movin', as I mentioned in my post last week, life is one big dance party, so I encourage you to make moves - even if they are a little awkward. My moves almost always are awkward - in dance parties and in life! So, okay.
First of all, I love the playlist!!! The mix of genres is just perfect! Second of all, I can totally relate to a lot of what you are saying here. I personally started training for a half marathon less than a year ago, I ran the half and kept running after that. I didn't realize until after my training was over that I was addicted! I was addicted to the high you feel after running and the power you feel each time your feet hit the ground. I use running as an outlet both to think and relieve stress (hence why I like running by myself), and although at times my schedule gets too crazy, I always seem to make time for it. The reason I am telling you all of this is because it is important to move in a way that makes you happy and that gives you joy in the end. The people who enjoy working out don't alway necessarily enjoy the actual physical movement as much as feeling of pride and joy that comes afterwards. Trust me its hard some morning to lace up my sneakers as I am sure it is hard for other get off the couch, but if you find that activity that you love it becomes much easier. For some its easier when you have a buddy or a group and for others, like myself, it is a wonderful moment to yourself.
ReplyDeleteSorry for all the ranting but I just thought I'd share another perspective!
I love your insight Mariana! Thanks for sharing! And keep up the GREAT work! I'm always so impressed by runners such as yourself who do half-marathons and everything else...YOU GO GIRL!
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