A few days ago I came home so tired and with such low energy, all I wanted was a nap. This happens often as I am really terrible at getting enough sleep (working on it!). I was about to cancel my plans for a hike but decided I would just take things one step at a time. Step one: change into workout clothes. Step two: drive to my sister’s. Once there I was secretly hoping that she would opt out too, and we’d just relax at her place. But we just kept taking the next step and the next.

Before long we were at Hilton Falls Conservation Area, picking the longest trail for a run/walk.

We started running and I couldn’t believe the energy and stamina that started coursing through my body. My strong heart beat, steady breath and the beads of sweat were my fuel. It kind of helped that swarms of mosquitos were waiting to pounce on us the minute we stopped. And so we kept going. And going. And going.

Anytime I felt my body wanting to stop I remembered a saying someone posted on Facebook once:

When your legs get tired, run with your heart.

And so I did. We both did.

By the end my energy levels were amped up and I felt GREAT! My body strong, my muscles spent and my head clear.

Today was the same kind of thing. After not yet recovering from a weekend packed with late nights, a ton of walking and a few too many drinks I just wanted to lay comatose on the couch. But again I took that first step: I laced up my runners.

The moral of the story is that sometimes you have to tune in really closely to what your body is telling you. It might be shouting “Rest! I need rest! Crawl into bed now!” Yet at the same time a small voice can be heard whispering beneath it all “But if you want to take me out for a run I’m good with that too”.

Pay attention to the whispers, the rewards are bountiful.

Xo
ilona