Running Rituals

Rituals help us begin well. They set a rhythm that is easy to follow – or a rhythm to catch us on days when we otherwise might fall off the proverbial wagon. Incorporating rituals into anything we want to become an ongoing part of our life is often where the magic lies. At their best, they remind us what we love about a practice and why we are committed to it. At their simplest, they can serve as a springboard to launch us!

I haven’t always loved running, but I so look forward to it now! Mainly because it is so accessible and flexible, and that is what I need in my daily fitness routine. It can change according to what my physical, mental and emotional needs are for the day. I might need to blow off some steam with hills or speed work, or I might need an easy, tempo run to help me transition from work and provide fresh endorphins to enjoy the evening. Finding a flow on a long trail is worth planning a weekend around, but sneaking in a fun fartlek at the end of a workday can shed stress too.

Below is a list of loves and rituals that keep me running these days. I hope they inspire you too!

Nature: A trail run feels like diving into an ocean of green leaves. Immersing myself under the canopy until I find a flow that feels weightless is what I look forward to almost every weekend.

Socks: It’s that simple. Running socks make me happy. Bright and tight! I only wear them when I run. That might mean putting them on in the morning when I know I’m going to run that afternoon or packing them in my bag for an afterwork trot at a park on my way home. (If you haven’t tried compression socks yet, it’s time!)

Tunes or books: Music is a mood changer! Not just listening to it, but keeping a running playlist to add to gives you another element to look forward to. Open ear earbuds are a must – Aftershokz are my favorite. Long runs can turn into story time, and that’s a great way to distract you from the run and the distance if you struggle with zoning out.

Dog: Have a pet that loves getting outside? That happiness is enough to get me out. Let them motivate you to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Your pup will be thrilled, and you’ll both get some exercise in.

Prep routine: Have a simple routine that feels like autopilot and gets you in your body. My go to: dynamic leg swings, hip circles, side angle, lunge twist and a plank.

Stats: My competitive edge needs a challenge! Not every run involves tracking stats, but seeing progress is so motivating. Beating my last time on a familiar trail or hitting tighter splits on the track can be the satisfaction I need to end a day with my head high.

Friend: An accountability partner can help us stick to our workout, and the company makes it more fun! Send a text on Monday, pick a day and time, and commit yourselves to a run later in the week.

Flexibility: Running can take so many forms. Remember you are not tied to an all-out sprint when you need a long, slow jog. Ask yourself: What do I need from this run today? How do I want to feel at the end?

Then just start.

Put on the socks. Play the tunes. Begin those leg swings. You won’t regret it.

– Hope Parks, Blackberry Farm Wellness Lifestyle Expert