There is no doubt that the benefits of running are plentiful but as well as being great for keeping our hearts and bodies healthy, it can also be good for our minds too.
You might not have thought about practising mindfulness as you run, but if you stop and think about it for a second, it makes total sense.
If you are able to get into the grove, then running while freeing your mind of troubles and simply being in the moment can be hugely impactful.
To help you start your journey, we have had a look at how you can run the mindful way.
Before you go out for a run, just think about your mood, your day and where you are at. Also consider when you run because at the height of rush hour might not be the best time.
Be sure you stretch before you run, as normal, and you might find that adding a little essential oil (we like peppermint) to your vest can help you breathe more easily and clear your mind.
Once on the move, find a comfortable pace. Some days you will be faster and other days you will want to take it easier. See how you are feeling, and go with your mood.
As you run, take a moment to be mindful of the world around you. Take in the weather, the temperature, other runners, dog walkers, the buildings on the street and be conscious of smells, colours and sounds.
Once you have found your pace, just remind yourself of the intention to run mindfully during your session.
When you are ready, choose either your left or right foot and count every time it touches the ground.
Count ten steps, on that foot, and once you get to ten, start again.
As you do this, if any invasive thoughts come into your head, acknowledge them then let them go again.
If those thoughts come back, simply let them go once more. It might take a while for your to get used to running with a mindful intention, but in time those thoughts won’t come to mind and you will get used to running free.
As you run, you will find that you go into a mindful zone where the thoughts of the day and the world around you disappear and you are left with your steps. When this happens, you are running mindfully.
As your practise becomes more natural, you can mix things up a little and try counting your breaths rather than steps and enjoy being at one with your body.
As you come to the end of your run and start to stretch and cool down, stay with your breathing.
By working to slow down and rewire your mind, you really can let go of stress, get fit, and use running to calm down and live in the moment.
So focus on your breath, drop the busy thoughts and watch your steps and as you enjoy the silence of the moment, even on a busy road, you can think more clearly, be more compassionate and connect with yourself and those around you.
Team Pure Beauty
