|
Runners are an interesting breed. When you see them out running – sometimes on the side of the road, the sidewalk or even out on a running trail, you’re tempted to think that it’s all about the physical exercise – developing stamina, burning calories, staying fit. And, while it would be hard to say that these aspects are not part of the equation – the truth is that to think running is primarily about the physical act of ‘running’ – actually misses the point.
Running is really more about the mental, the spiritual – and quite often about the solitude that goes with it. For others, at times, it can even be the social aspects that are important. But, in all these cases, the physical part of running is really just a prerequisite. In many ways, this is also true if you like to go for long walks, or enjoy cycling, gardening or a variety of other outdoor activities.
I know for me – and I’ve been running most every day – since sometime in high school – it’s about that time, usually early in the morning – to be alone, to think, to organize the day – and sometimes even to let my mind wander, possibly coming up with some creative ‘out of the box’ idea that I know I never could have developed while sitting at a desk.
It can also be a family bonding experience. This past year our older son, Lincoln, who flies for the U.S. Navy – had just transitioned from being deployed and flying on the aircraft carrier to being based in Florida and serving as a flight instructor. A much more flexible lifestyle – with discretionary time. So, he decided to use some of this extra time and set his sights on becoming a competitive runner – aiming for several marathons.
In the process, Linc suggested that I might join him in prepping to do some marathons – and so, I’ve joined him in the process. The truth is that he’s much (much) faster than me. But, nonetheless, it gives us a common activity, some common goals and a substantive reason to talk or text most every day. In fact, we even share the same kind of running watch and are even using the same coach.
So, while we do ‘run’ – the greater point is that this is a father/son shared experience. The same is true, in a different way – for folks who join running clubs, gather for weeknight running groups and so forth. It can truly be a social experience.
It’s interesting. At one end of the spectrum, there is the solitude of an early morning run – out there – by yourself, with just your thoughts. At the other end, you can see running as the perfect way to socialize, to bond and experience meaningful human interaction. Yet, no matter which end of the spectrum where you might find yourself, the most intriguing thing is that it’s not so much about the physical act of running – it’s about the experience.
So, as you think about what might be a healthy, fun activity to engage in, why not give running a try. Especially as the weather cools down a bit and we move into the beautiful New England fall season. I suspect you may find it to be a truly beneficial, possibly even fun, experience – that transcends the purely physical. And gives you a sense of satisfaction and well-being.
| 
