As I've written before, I am a newbie to barefoot running, and new to the BRS. So, I don't know if this post is appropriate for this forum, or any forum here, and if it isn't, I'm hoping TJ will just nuke it.
Exactly a year ago, I began what I can only describe as a transformation, the form of which I could neither predict nor entirely control. I was approaching my 55th birthday, and although I have been running on and off since my early 20s, hadn't done so with any regularity since a hamstring injury sidelined me 10 years ago. Over the course of that decade, I gained a lot of weight, began to feel physically and mentally depressed, and worse, was facing a future that was certain to include either heart disease, diabetes, both, or worse. I have a family history of all these things, on both sides. And my father died of heart disease...at 55. Nothing like a cold slap in the face as I approached that birthday.
Not to bore you all with the details, but I made a resolution to myself, on September 30, 2011, that I would make changes in my life to turn this trend in the opposite direction. One year later, I've gone from 207 to 155 lbs, adopted a plant-based diet, begun practicing yoga and meditation, joined a gym and actually go there regularly, and, my latest blessing, taken up barefoot running. This latest has been like a re-birth for me. I have never enjoyed running so much, despite the fact that I am essentially starting over again. Yesterday morning I was able to cover about three miles comfortably, at a slow, relaxed pace, and felt great before, during, and most importantly, afterward. A month ago I ran a half-marathon (shod), yet today, a three-mile barefoot run gave me a far greater sense of accomplishment, satisfaction, and joy. Yes, joy. It stayed with me all day, and it remains this morning.
So, I just wanted to share this with you all, and again wanted to say "thanks" to those of you who have shared your experience, insight, and encouragement as I learn this new skill. You can never know how much this means to me, but I hope you will accept my sincere gratitude. May we all continue to run (and live) with joy, purpose, and clear intentions. You have been a blessing to me, and I hope to return the favor.
Exactly a year ago, I began what I can only describe as a transformation, the form of which I could neither predict nor entirely control. I was approaching my 55th birthday, and although I have been running on and off since my early 20s, hadn't done so with any regularity since a hamstring injury sidelined me 10 years ago. Over the course of that decade, I gained a lot of weight, began to feel physically and mentally depressed, and worse, was facing a future that was certain to include either heart disease, diabetes, both, or worse. I have a family history of all these things, on both sides. And my father died of heart disease...at 55. Nothing like a cold slap in the face as I approached that birthday.
Not to bore you all with the details, but I made a resolution to myself, on September 30, 2011, that I would make changes in my life to turn this trend in the opposite direction. One year later, I've gone from 207 to 155 lbs, adopted a plant-based diet, begun practicing yoga and meditation, joined a gym and actually go there regularly, and, my latest blessing, taken up barefoot running. This latest has been like a re-birth for me. I have never enjoyed running so much, despite the fact that I am essentially starting over again. Yesterday morning I was able to cover about three miles comfortably, at a slow, relaxed pace, and felt great before, during, and most importantly, afterward. A month ago I ran a half-marathon (shod), yet today, a three-mile barefoot run gave me a far greater sense of accomplishment, satisfaction, and joy. Yes, joy. It stayed with me all day, and it remains this morning.
So, I just wanted to share this with you all, and again wanted to say "thanks" to those of you who have shared your experience, insight, and encouragement as I learn this new skill. You can never know how much this means to me, but I hope you will accept my sincere gratitude. May we all continue to run (and live) with joy, purpose, and clear intentions. You have been a blessing to me, and I hope to return the favor.
