Giving New Meaning to Parenting

It’s a running day.

The air is crisp and cool, ideal for a long, slow run. The sun warms my back as I tighten my shoes and stretch my back.

I head off. I know it’s important to start slow and work up gradually, but I’m always in a hurry. Impatience overtakes me. I want to get going. I want to feel the adrenaline. It’s always hard to pace myself, but mind wins over matter. My muscles stretch and it feels good. I’m ready to go.

Half mile. Why do I do this? Running is hard. My calves burn, my face is not welcoming the feeling of wind. It’s a real push to keep moving.

The first mile. I reach the first hill of my route, the point where I pick up the pace. Facing a hill excites me, because I know how good it feels to be on the other side. Momentum builds and I force myself to move faster.

Mile two. Feeling amazing. To say I’ve hit my stride is an understatement. I’m moving fluidly, all parts of my body working in sync. I imagine my profile to be graceful. I picture my muscles hard at work, tightening. All is right in my world. The children are being looked after. Beyond music, there is no talking. No questions. No needs to be met. I’m alone with the road and my thoughts.

Two and a half miles. Fatigue sets in, but it comes with an immense sense of impending accomplishment. I know the end is coming and this run is almost behind me. Any doubts about my body have been left at the half-mile. I’m tired, but energized.

Mile three. I slow to a brisk walk. My cheeks are flush. My face hot. I’m sweating in places I didn’t know I could. This run is behind me and I feel like the rest of the day will be one easy task after another. I’ve done this run hundreds of times and still feel awed and proud after each one. When I’m done I feel refreshed, athletic and able. Running affects my confidence and my drive. My willpower is increased tenfold, knowing the work I put into it.

I hit home and stretch. I quench my thirst and sit for a moment before I walk into the house and let my running high into my daily life.

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This view into my mind while I run is based on a typical thirty to forty minute, 3 mile (5K) run. I’ve run longer and I’ve run shorter, but generally find the 3 mile run to be the biggest test of my mind and body.

[tags] running, fitness, motivation, exercise, inspiration, why I run, parenting, mothering, run walk[/tags]

Thanks to Chris Campbell for use of his Flickr photo.