Well hello, 2021! It's been a refreshing start to the new year, just a way to restart. Over the last two years, my favorite way to start the new year has been NERC Streak. What's that? North End Run Club sets out a challenge to run (or walk!) one mile outside everyday in the month of January. & I love it!
It's gets me moving, even on days I don't feel like doing anything. It's a commitment to myself to refresh the mind, body, and soul. It's not always easy, some days it's all I can muster is one mile. But the key? I am more than happy with it.
2020 wasn't the year anyone imagined! I set out to do 2 half-marathons, but did none. Some days I regret that I didn't do it, but in the end my body needed it. Running is never the same year in and year out - hell not even day to day. I kept thinking it was just all my body, which while true, I was mentally worn. I kept moving with yoga, Cyclebar, and 1-on-1 coaching. While that should have been enough, I felt defeated by my runs. It seemed everything I had built up in 2019 was just gone. My legs wouldn't move!
But over these last few months of stepping back, I have intentionally focused on enjoying the movement. It has become about me, myself, and I. I found Strava to be too toxic for me, so I stay away 95% of the time. (More on that next time...) Even more, I have found looking at my watch for the duration of a run is extremely detrimental. My runs lately are going by simply how I feel. So if I walk/run, that is more than okay. If I am speedy, then hell yes! But all I can think is to be grateful to get outside and move. To feel the fresh, cool air and enjoy the freedom to move my legs.
In doing so, my mind and body have rewarded the watch. Each time I am in awe of what I accomplish when I just go out to move. For the first time is 3 years of NERC Streak I have run more than I have walked my daily miles. But the best part? I am still feeling fresh af. As I lace up, I simply think "let your legs just go however they need." It's been freeing, rewarding, and (dare I say!)...fun.
Not sure what 2021 will hold race-wise for me, I will take it day-to-day as the world turns around. As of now, I have Shamrock 8k. Then who knows what will come. But all I know is I will enjoy this time of movement. Be it running, cycling, yogi-style, or strength training...I am doing it. & that's all I need to do.
Just do it!
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