The Little Things

Today's run ended up being in the evening and I was glad for it. We both had more endurance and were able to bump our length to 1 and 1/2 miles instead of just 1. This may have been a small increase, but it felt the world to me to pass the 3/4 mile mark on the green way before turning back around. 

I am beginning to enjoy running the more I do it. Granted it still burns, as it should (when I push myself) but the feeling I get when I can run longer, no matter how much more, is incredible. I focused more on breathing from my belly today when I noticed my ab muscles were feeling tight. I have always known about belly breathing from being in multiple choirs and theater productions, but I had never applied it to running. It is not an easy thing to do! Your body naturally wants to breath from your chest when you are short of breath. When I was able to concentrate and breath properly it helped tremendously. 

One of the things I love about running is that when I am running, I don't feel over weight at all. My feet glide me along the path, my legs shooting out farther, carrying me up and down the hills and around the bends. When I concentrate on my form instead of the pain things become quite easier, more natural and effortless. 

Matt and I went to Applebee's for dinner after running and were both shocked at our appetites. We were very hungry going into the restaurant but found we could not eat as much as we usually do. 

I love the little things that I see improve because of running; my ability to eat more correct portion sizes and remain full, being able to run farther, feeling good about running and enjoying it. I never thought I would come to love running. I knew I would get used to it, but my enjoyment was not expected though much appreciated. I can rest peacefully tonight knowing I am doing a great job.