Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Stress Reliever

There are times where I feel completely frazzled, unable to concentrate, easily irritated, and stressed out. I am one of the many people who's emotions are written all over her face; I see no need to hide myself. Most someone will ask me if I am okay, if something happened, if I am hungry. Those who see me often enough and know me well enough usually ask, "Were you not able to get a run in?" or "Do you need a run?"

Activities like running, among other healthful things that I have mentioned in previous posts (like increasing mood-altering Serotonin), burn up stress chemicals, like adrenaline, which gives a calming sensation (The Better Health Channel, 2008). So does running calm me or does not running stress me? Is it a play of cycles? All I know is that if I don't run for two days in a row, that third day, I am not myself. I turn into a short-tempered, pessimistic, stress-case. So, the easy option is to just continue running...for life.

Happy running all!

Reference:
The Better Health Channel. (2008). Depression and Exercise. State of Victoria.

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Training Reflection

Getting ready for the marathon...Ran a 13.25 today in 2 hours. I am feeling really great in my training. I have ten weeks to go and I feel strong, focused, uninjured, am running more than what is scheduled...still getting in some good rest. I feel really good. It makes me realize...I really CAN do this! It's kind of weird. I don't know how else to say it. It feels weird...I feel like the impossible is possible. Also of note: Cousie ran a marathon in Cali today. She not only qualified for Boston, but won 3rd place in her age group!!!! She is amazing! I'm so proud of her! <3 <3 <3