Finding a Mantra

Earlier this week, I was reading in Runner's World that many long distance runners develop mantras that they repeat either aloud, or in their heads, that get them through painful or difficult runs.

Today, Madeline, Alicia and I ran 9 miles. Our longest so far!

Over the past couple of runs this week, I had been attempting copy-catting some of the mantras the runners in the magazine said they use. They didn't really give me any extra boost. Some of them were things like "Go, go, go!" Others were more image-centered, some sounded like tough love, and others didn't make any sense to me.

What I realized on my run today, as I was fighting strong head-winds and some cross-winds (and lots of hills!), was that repeating something that was meaningful to me did it. I don't care what my body looks like at the end of this. I don't care what people think of me for doing this, whether they think it's motivated, crazy, or stupid. While I am really proud of going this distance for the first time in my life (26.2), what matters to me is how this is benefitting me in the long run. 

I found myself forming a mantra without thinking about it. For a good 2 miles I kept saying the same thing, out loud, over and over and over again, and it kept giving me an extra shove to run through the pain. Here it is:

"Stronger heart, stronger lungs, stronger legs."

If I keep this habit for years to come, I'm improving my strength, endurance, health, and  lung capacity. I'm not fast, I'm not particularly graceful, but I am healthy enough to do this! I could be doing it for washboard abs, toned calves, or the T-shirt at the end of the race, but the thing that makes me happiest about running and doing it to achieve a goal is how much healthier I'm becoming, and how much healthier I'll continue to be. For me, that's something worth running about.

--Natalie

Crater Lake

Sunday was 8 miles! 

Currently, we're in the middle of a discussion, trying to decide which half-marathon(s) to run as part of our training. Half marathons are great for marathoners to run because it can really help to measure pace, preparedness, and give a good feel for the race day environment and preparation.

Right now, it seems that one of the half marathons in consideration is the Crater Lake Rim Run:

With a view like that, how can you not be tempted to lace up your shoes and join the ranks at the start line? 

There are also 2 half marathons taking place in Portland this summer, as well as another in Gaston. More updates to come as decisions are made. 

--Natalie

Brief Interruption

I recently decided to raise money for an organization called Girls on the Run. You may have noticed the link on the upper right hand side of this blog page. That link takes you to my pledge site.

Right now the closest GotR council to me is in Coconino county. It's not that far, but I'd like to start one in my community in the fall, in addition to fund raising. Here's a video that shows you what Girls on the Run does:

Click Here to Watch the Video

Thanks for taking a look,

Natalie