Unplugged
I had my first longer run a few days ago and did NOT have my ipod with me. I ran almost 5 miles with my dog along the Fox River and it was wonderful.
I wanted to do this because I had read somewhere recently about someone who never runs with music because its her one time in her week to really just be quiet and not have any noise in her head.
I don’t know why this was so monumental of a thought for me, I mean hello – I’ve been trying to practice the Sabbath for that very reason – a day to just be. silent. to be. present. You just can’t do that when there’s music blaring in your head.
So many small little blessings came my way this week too which really made me feel like I wanted to spend time thanking God and honor him by just running and tuning in.
You know what? The river was more beautiful than I remembered it being. I noticed the grass and how green it is this spring! The birds were so gorgeous in their songs. Overall, I just realized how much more I noticed, because I was actually paying attention.
It’s very obvious to me that I need this and my relationship with God needs this.
Tomorrow I am running again….
Unplugged.
Wow, how inspiring! Perhaps the disciplined mind (and body) is best attuned…
When I started running in the morning, before the sun comes up, I eliminated using my ipod because I needed my sense of hearing as well as sight to make sure I could hear and see cars coming and going. It was a safety-first decision. But like you, now I truly enjoy it. You’re right, I am more aware and appreciative of my surroundings and I’m more in tune with the thoughts in my head. My runs are like therapy now– a time to reflect, pray and be grateful for my surroundings.