This morning, I set out to do a 30 minute run, following good advice on here. I removed all pressure other than just to get out there and run. Well, it was actually 32 minutes as I chose a Nike Run Club guided run ‘Running on Empty with Headspace’. I’ve enjoyed these mindful guided runs before, with the inimitable Coach Bennett and Andy Puddicombe. This particular run was new to me.
It was a good morning to go out for a run! A little chilly, but the sun held a promise of warmer days to come. Running along the single track road by the river, with the sun warming my back was a treat. I didn’t care about my pace or distance, but listened to CB and Andy. There are gaps in the conversation, but I had no music, preferring then to focus on my surroundings and the sounds of the birds. There are still Whooper swans here, and I see a couple of flocks flying out to the fields, but I think some of them have already started their journey back to Iceland.
I celebrated my success in getting out of the door and starting the run. I swallowed my annoyance in seeing at least half a dozen runners out there this morning, two of them accompanied by encouraging partners on bikes. I acknowledge them all as expected in a small village. A man runs towards me who I’ve never seen before, we have a brief exchange of words as we pass each other. I wonder who he is, he’s tall and loping along effortlessly. Naturally I speed up automatically as we pass!
I check my watch during the last kilometre and decide that I’m actually putting pressure on myself to finish fast, so I back off to a more comfortable pace. I’m pleased at my strength in doing this! It’s what I need for now.
The guided run is brought to a close and I feel pleased that I’ve taken it steady in the sunshine. 😊🏃♀️☀️
How not to run your long run... oops!
