It’s cold and windy today, but I still head out for my run. That’s because — whether I’m running on the beach, in the cold, in the rain, or on the treadmill — I’m always feeling grateful by the end of my run.
I’m grateful for running and the peace and calmness it brings me when I’m feeling stressed. Running allows me to hit the pause button on everything else that’s going on in my life. From the moment I tie my running shoes, I’m no longer a mother, a wife, a coach, a writer – I’m just a runner. I can focus on the sound of my feet hitting the pavement and let my mind wander to wherever it wants to go. When I return from a run, I feel refreshed, re-energized, and more confident to tackle my to-do list and face whatever problems emerge.
I’m grateful that running allows me to experience nature in all its beauty. When I’m running on the roads or on trails, I pay more attention to the sights, sounds, and smells of nature. I have the time and patience to listen to the leaves crunching under my feet and spot the crocuses popping up through the soil.
I’m grateful for running and the bonds that it’s helped me form and strengthen with family members and friends, old and new. My husband and I are both runners and, although we don’t frequently run together, running gives us some common ground. We support each other through the highs and lows of running. The shared experiences — from crazy road trips to epic long runs — that I’ve had with my running friends have created memories and bonds to last a lifetime.
My mom started running several years ago and our relationship has deepened as we’ve run races together, swapped running tips, cheered for each other at races, and laughed about embarrassing running mishaps.
I’m grateful that running keeps me healthy and reminds me not to take my health for granted. I love being a healthy role model for my kids and showing them that exercise is fun and good for you. I know there will be a day when I won’t be able to run. But that’s not today. Today I’m grateful to run.
Why are you grateful for running?
