Try Something New
By Jeremy Gulley
I have had a lot on my mind this week. There are so many things changing and fluctuating that I have had a difficult time relaxing and thinking about anything other than my own issues.
One thing that usually helps me to focus is exercise – specifically running. Last week, when things seemed to be particularly confusing, I decided the best thing to do would be to go for a run.
A problem arose, however — I couldn’t find my running shoes.
I looked everywhere, but I ended up only finding two left shoes. Since I have a left and a right foot, that combination wasn’t going to work. So, what to do?
I did what any self respecting runner who is a little short of common sense and a long on crazy – I went without them. I stepped out into the 20 degree temperature onto the sidewalk outside of my house, and started running. I learned right away that the sidewalk wasn’t going to be a good running surface, and the pavement was even colder, so I tried to keep on the grass as much as possible.
I have friends who run barefoot most of the time, and have tried short distances barefoot in the past, but nothing over a half-mile or so. But that day, I decided the best thing to do was to keep going.
As I ran, an interesting thing happened; my thoughts started to focus only on running. Everything that had been weighing me down that day evaporated in the cold as my bare feet propelled me along in the cold early evening air. I finished the 3 miles I intended to run and decided to run another two.
When I finished, my feet were an odd shade of blue-grey, and had a hint of black from the mud I encountered. It took about an hour to warm up, but it was worth it. The issues that occupied my mind before the run were gone, and I felt refreshed and invigorated. My perspective changed thanks to the simple act of trying something new.
Now I am not advocating for everyone to run barefoot in the cold as a way of coping with life’s difficulties, but I think there is another message here. When things are rough and we are caught in a cycle of negative thoughts, why not try to do something new? We all love adventure to some degree, and I think it is good for the mind to seek out new experiences when life gets us down.
Anything from starting a dance class to eating a new muffin can help lift our spirits.
Who knows, it could be the start of something new in our lives. I have to admit, I loved running without shoes so much I did it again the next day.
Short URL: http://osawatominews.com/?p=780
Posted by admin
on Jan 12 2011. Filed under Jeremy Gulley, Opinion.
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