I am a much better mom/wife/human being when I’m running on a regular basis. From a mental health standpoint, 3o minutes of running 5 times a week is the best thing I can do for myself. 30 minutes at whatever speed my body feels is right that day seems to “flip the switch” in my head. When I’m not getting that, I’m a lot less patient, I’m a little bit angry at the world, and stress affects me more.
For the last year and a half, I’ve had to broaden my exercise routine. I’m happiest when I’m running, but with some extra time and effort, yoga, my bike and the gym can keep me going. It’s not the same, but it takes the edge off. Running is my anti-depressant. Other exercise is like taking a slightly too low dose.
I ran on Monday. 3 miles in 29 minutes. It felt hard, but at the same time it was awesome. It was super humid with occasional sprinkles and it felt so good to come home sweaty, feeling like I’d really worked my body.
Monday night, my foot swelled again. It didn’t hurt much, unless I pressed on the swelling (I know, so don’t press on it). But it concerns me that it’s still swelling, especially after taking 5 days off.
Tuesday it felt fine and there was no swelling. I took the day off running, planning to get to the gym. I ended up taking a nap instead. (Just for the record, I’m not a napper.)
I need to get things back on track. All of my behaviors are pointing to me heading to my unhappy place. I don’t know if I’m going to try running or if I’m going to the gym, but I have an hour and a half between kid drop off and a phone meeting and SOME form of exercise will happen. Otherwise, I’m pretty sure my kids are going to get the locks changed…
mcmmama
mcmmama
mcmmama
{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
Yeah, don’t press on it. Sure, pour cheap beer on it, but don’t press on it.
Glad you got your nap on!!
Yay for 90 minutes of available time today!!
Enjoy it my friend.
As Nike says, just do it!
not excited about the continued swelling… not at all.
Hope the gym workout was “enough”.
the humidity right now. good god.
I hope you get a great workout in today! I am the same way. Running is the best way to help with my mood. Other workouts work, but none as well as a good run:)
What is it about running that no other exercise can seem to match. I really hope your foot heals soon so you can get back doing what you love and need.
I’m fortunate that walking the dogs is almost as effective for me as running with regard to getting my emotions in check. If your foot doesn’t cooperate, I hope you can find something that takes the edge off.
I feel the same way. Hope either the swelling issue resolves or you can find some other outlet that is as satisfying as running. Have you tried a kettlebell or cross fit style class ever?
take that first sentence and shove in the word weights and you have me.
maybe try more of that with me?
virtually?