I started running again.
It's been several months since I laced up my sneakers and took to the road for a good run. Lacking the desire or motivation, I was quite content practicing yoga and riding my bike. But ever since moving close to Central Park again, I couldn't resist the great call from the outdoors enticing me to come play. My body was craving a good sweat, the delicious burn from total muscle recruitment.
So I begin to run.
No Ipod, no partner, no distractions.
Just me.
I head straight for the reservoir, to the gravel path surrounding this manmade body of water. It is here, at New York's heart center, where I breathe my first invigorating breath. Lungs expand as I take it all in. I listen to the crunch of pebbles under my feet and the watch as the wind dances among leaves. Sunlight flutters across the tops of trees. I savor the warmth of September sun as it mingles with the cool undertones of autumn soon approaching.
I set no minimum mile requirement, no designated time frame. I run for pure pleasure. I don't recall ever experiencing this emotion; I have always felt so suffocated by what I had to accomplish that I left little time for actual enjoyment. But today, I run slow and with purpose. An intention develops to feel each step, to listen to the sweet sounds of nature, to acknowledge my connection to Mother Earth.
For years, using my physical body has been my main way to process life's emotions. I started exercising at 14 years old, soon becoming my way to deal with every challenge and triumph I encountered. Although I have adding tools to my arsenal of life skills, I still find moving the physical body deeply therapeutic. It gives my mind a focus that creates an inner calming. I begin to see things clearly....and differently. I release anger, frustration and hurt. Droplets of sweat pour out pain as if my whole body is crying.
In one leisurely jog through my beloved park, I let go and feel myself liberate.
Since then, I listen closely to when my body craves a run. It is my time to think, a quiet space where I leave everything behind.
No phone, no wallet, no set course.
Just me.
For those fleeting moments, I cannot be reached, completely disconnected from the outer obtrusive world. I devour the fresh air, appreciating this transitory moment leading me into the next phase.
