Running from stress…
Well it’s that time of the year….School is coming, the days are getting shorter, the heat won’t subside, and you probably didn’t accomplish all that you had planned for this summer. No need to stress over these things. You have got to remember, EVERYONE is experiencing the same stressors. There really is no best plan of action when dealing with stress since everyone handles it differently, but one thing always eases my tensions and relaxes my mind; the fresh air and sunshine on a run. In fact, I’ve been making the trip down to the Jersey Shore usually once, but sometimes twice a week now since the summer started to get one with the ocean air. The headphones go on, the hat goes backwards, and I let my feet take me without a set time or distance goal. Most times I will make it 10 miles before I even realize it. Sometimes I will walk, sometimes I will sit on a bench and stretch, and I have even been known to dart into a store or two (as long as there isn’t a “no shirt, no shoes” sign in the door). When it’s all over and I am heading back to my truck I usually have cleared my mind so much that I honestly don’t even remember what playlist I had on.
I like to call my getaway a “destination run,” but it can really apply to anything when it comes to integration of mind and body. Biking, swimming, meditation, stretching, etc. The key is to remove yourself from your everyday scenery. This scenery will only be a reminder of any looming deadlines, bills, problems, etc that have you down. Transport yourself into a whole new atmosphere, one that is only memorable for it’s good times, smells, feels, and lack of STRESS. Maybe your schedule won’t allow you to drive to the beach, but there may be a local park, a group run, an open field, a quiet lake, or even an open trail which is ready for you to escape to for a quick, mindless run or workout. Try to get to your destination once a week to help keep yourself sane, and remember it is always there when you need it!
About the Author (Author Profile)
Mike Dailey is a certified Health and Physical Education teacher in the state of New Jersey and is also a Fitness Director to one of the areas leading Health Clubs. His passion is long distance running, having completed the Philadelphia Marathon in 2008 and 2009 and the ocean drive marathon in 2009.
Subscribe
If you enjoyed this article, subscribe to receive more just like it.
