Take the positives!

[Archerygoddess]

I suffered a family bereavement a year ago and have been struggling to come to terms with it. As the anniversary approaches I seem to have become quite anxious and this is having an effect on my running, with each run getting slower. On Saturday morning I run a 5k, and today I just didn't want to go out, despite the lovely weather. My mental health coach always says "stick to the plan, not the mood" so out I went and ran an even slower 5k!However, in the spirit of staying positive I am actually going out for a longer run each week in terms of time, so there is something to be said for it. At the rate I'm going it will soon take me 50 minutes but hey, long live snails 🐌🐌🐌

[sTrongFuse Graduate10]

Go with the plan and not the mood is very much my mantra at the moment. Prior to having covid, running was a very important part of my mental health regime. Not being able to run has taken it's toll emotionally as well as the obvious physical setbacks.

I've always been a fan of the slow runs where you just soak in the atmosphere of your surroundings as you put one foot down in front of the other; there is something meditative and therapeutic about them I find.

Sorry for your loss and I hope that once the anniversary passes, your spirits will be able to lift again and you can enjoy your running again. Take care 🙏

[Archerygoddess 60minGraduate in reply to sTrongFuse]

Thank you. I'm learning to enjoy the slow runs, and it does help clear your mind x

[sTrongFuse Graduate10 in reply to Archerygoddess]

I'm very fortunate. I live at the edge of a small village and almost from the momemt I step out the door, I'm in the countryside with forest trails and footpaths for me to amble along. I often encounter deer, foxes, squirrels, buzzards and other wildlife when out, so that always helps me find a stillness even when my mind wants to struggle with me.

[Archerygoddess 60minGraduate in reply to sTrongFuse]

We're quite rural, but very agricultural so no forest trails, sadly. I was watching the buzzards on this morning's run. Along with the deer they seem to be doing very well. We have lots of ponds and the canal, though, and lately I've been running near the water a lot more. It is so good for the mind, watching the wildfowl.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate10]

Snails rock... and so do you... very well done.

Anxiety whatever the cause, is draining and wearing... I empathise completely...

Just do what you feel able, be kind to yourself and simply run. Let the worry and stress float away behind, as you move slowly forward...because you are, moving forward, however gently x

[Archerygoddess 60minGraduate in reply to Oldfloss]

Thanks x

[Annieapple Administrator]

🍏Bereavement anniversaries are hard but you are doing the best thing by staying with your plan. Well done!

PS Snails 🐌 are good 😊 you will always keep going at snail pace it’s not slow it’s easy 😊

[Archerygoddess 60minGraduate in reply to Annieapple]

Thanks x

[Frizzbomb67 Graduate10]

As Coach Bennett would say, ‘You’re not running slow, you’re running smart.’ Keep on enjoying the journey 🤗

[Teresa1632 Graduate10]

I love that saying! Good for you, getting out there. It's hard to open the door and just go, sometimes the thought is worse than doing it. I know exactly how you feel - my two brothers died suddenly, (one very recently), and both young. Anniversaries will get easier. It's a testimony to the love you shared, one day the scales will rebalance you'll be able to cherish the blessings of having your loved one in your life. Take your time, that day will come. I like the poem "So many different moments of time" by Brian Patten. It might resonate with you too. mybeautfulthings.com/2017/0... keep on running, it really does clear the head! ❤🏃‍♀️

[Archerygoddess 60minGraduate in reply to Teresa1632]

Lovely poem, thank you.

[Raisemeup 60minGraduate]

Firstly, as others say and what is recommended by C25k, running slowly is the best way to find your running legs safely and progressively, so please don't concern yourself with that.Your bereavement is enough to deal with and the anniversaries and certain occasions can be difficult. However, planning ahead can be helpful to spend the day in a way that distracts and eases you through it. The build up to the day is often more daunting than the actual day, especially if you have a plan. I have found having a slow run on the day an enormous help, as the endorphins play their part in lifting you however sad you feel.

You may have an idea of how to pass the day and whatever you do, good luck with it and as was mentioned, it really does get better in time.