- It makes me feel strong and powerful.
- It makes me more confident that I’d have a fighting chance if being chased by a bad guy. Um….too much Law & Order: SVU?
- I am not really all that athletic, yet running is the one (and only) thing I’ve found in my life that I feel I’m somewhat good at. It definitely gives me a boost of confidence…and I now realize how important it is for kids (and later, adults) to find a sport/activity that they truly love and enjoy.
- It helps me sleep better and more soundly.
- It helps me “stay on track” with my eating (see below).
- If something is bothering me, it ALWAYS seems less important after a run.
Yesterday, I had my longest run since May of 2009 – 6 miles! 
After not being able to run for so long, it truly makes me appreciate having it back in my life. I know not all people like to run or get the same thing out of it, but I do think it is SO important for all of us to find something we LOVE, that makes us feel good about ourselves. For some, this could be running. For others, it might be group fitness classes. Some people I know are very avid walkers, year round. One of my friends is an excellent scrapbooker and makes all of her own cards and invitiations. I know others who love to swim, or dance, or horseback ride. And I really love that every person is different.
As I mentioned above, my eating has always “been better” when I’ve been able to run. What I mean by that, of course, is that I binge and purge less, if at all. I can’t quite figure out why that is, exactly….maybe the fact that running boosts my self-esteem, therefore I’m not as tempted to turn to food for comfort? Whatever it is, it is so important in my recovery. And I hope and pray I’m able to continue to run, for that reason alone.
What about you? Do you have something you do that increases your confidence?
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I think working out helps me deal with stress instead of turning to more unhealthy habits. A quick 30 minutes of heart-pumping cardio and I’ve had time to process whatever’s been bothering me and like you said, put it in perspective.
Couldn’t agree more! Working out in general seems to keep me sane! I feel calmer and more composed when I am on top of my workouts. Running outside and teaching are the two things that really work for me. <3 this post
I like running for all the same reasons! It makes me feel like a badass when people ask how long I ran and I can be like, “oh… only like 4 miles… my training doesn’t call for long runs until the weekend…”
Yeah, that’s me being a little smug. So what? We work hard- it’s allowed.
YAY for getting your runner’s high groove back!! I’m so with you on all of the reasons to love running…or any workout you can find and learn to love. It is SO important to do what you love or else it’s not worth it, not enjoyable and chances are, you will not stick with it. I think having added confidence/better self-esteem as a result of being able to run again is great for what you’re trying to overcome regarding eating patterns. I’m so happy things are coming together for you!!
I feel the same way about running. It’s very empowering!
Congrats on the run, sweetie! That’s wonderful!
Love this! I am so glad you had a good run! Now rub that good run vibe off on me ok?
Woo hoo! Congrats on your long run! That is awesome!
I love running for some of the same reasons. It makes me feel capable and happy. It makes me feel accomplished.
I am happy it helps keep your eating on track too!
Zumba. I’ve been taking classes for over two years now, and I love it! I think it reminds me of all of the years I danced, and it’s a great stress reliever. I love walking outside too, but I think I’ll wait until hits at least 40* to pound the pavement…right now my treadmill is just fine. I like pilates too, for stretching and lengthening my muscles. Congrats on the long run; I wish I enjoyed running more!
runing is really good for you and you never know one day someone may turn on you they not be able to cath you i think also runing beets deppresion my doctor siad that but i dont know if its true
I love running… we still need a running date!!!
tell me when and where!
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