Today I went out for my first run of 2017 using running meditation. I’m not quite sure how I let it get to January 30th without running… actually I do. I’ve been making excuses. Either it’s been too cold (which in the UK it really has been!) or I’ve been to busy. Those things aren’t lies, but they are still excuses. I’ve found time for yoga and the gym, even time for sprints, just not a longer run (5km is long for me).
I was nervous last night just thinking about the run, so decided to get up and meditate before I had to go out. With running it’s so mindset based. If you think you can, you will. If you think you can’t, you’ve immediately given up and will of course find it tough. I use a few different techniques when I meditate, but today I chose to recite a mantra in my head for my running meditation that would empower me and make me feel like I can do whatever I put my mind to. I set up my seat (watch this video for a beginners guide to meditation), set my timer for 15 minutes and whilst keeping my breath soft and steady I repeated “I AM STRONG” over and over again. I honestly went out on that run with a new positivity I hadn’t had the night before. I was sensible with my pace and had Rob by my side, but my mindset was what got me around that loop… AND I ran 6km instead of 5km, just because I felt so good.
I massively recommend doing a running meditation when you’re feeling a similar way to how I was. Meditation helps still the mind and the thoughts, and repeating the mantra will help stop any negative thoughts passing through. For me, running is a meditation in itself. I don’t always have music, I just like being out in the fresh air being mindful sometimes.
If you’re not sure how to start with running meditation, watch my video all about it here, or check out my beginners guide to meditation blog post.
Love, Cat x