Thursday, May 23, 2013

Meditation in Motion

I have had a few people approach me recently about running. Usually the conversation focuses on the point that running bores them. The point that I try to get across is that I understand this challenge. 

Running to exercise is boring to me as well. I can't stand running at a track; it makes me feel like I'm a hamster running in circles. The most satisfying form of running that I have found is trail running. 

There is something about going outside of the groomed tracks and sidewalks of the world and stepping into nature that reawakens a sense of adventure in me. I have also found that footwear plays a large part in my satisfaction while running. I use the Vibram Bikila LS when I run. It's a lightweight shoes that moves with your foot and keeps your connection with the ground. 

Barefoot running is even better, although sometimes I'm not willing to tenderize my feet when I could just slip on my vibrams. Once I get past the first mile I just slip away and get lost in the present. It's one of the most satisfying experiences I know.