Being Kind To Myself

I run and walk in intervals. I make sure to land on my toes, avoiding to be a heel striker. It is more gentle on my body. I put my hand about 5 inches/12 cm in front of my belly button and pretend there is a string pulling my belly button forward. Every now and then I also place the inside palm of my hand on my lower back (I'm not that flexible in my right shoulder so I use my left arm instead) and that opens up my chest and tightens my core. These small tricks helps with an open and healthy posture and gives you a natural forward push making you land on the front ball of your feet. It helps you move forward in a brisk but natural stride while walking and running.

"Pull! Pull! Pull! Pull!" I pull my knees up slightly while running, lifting my feet from the ground while my body does the rest for moving forward. This mantra helps at the smallest, flattest upward hill. One step at the time, I'm getting closer to my goal.

For the first time in over a year I can enjoy my interval exercises again. With the coach from the Red Rock Apps in my ears telling me when to run and when to walk, I accomplish my exercises with great energy and joy. I have downloaded some music mixes which are adjusted to the tempo of walking v. running automatically during the program. Often I get that special endorphin rush and it is just FEEL GOOD on high level. And it is that FEEL GOOD rush I need on a daily basis. Coming outside, in the bright daylight, feeling weather and wind in my face, seeing the landscape around me and disconnecting from house chores and obligations, may it be a Red Rock exercise or just a brisk walk... An hour of "Being-Kind-To-Myself" every morning makes wonder for my heart, my soul and my body. I'm feeling good. 

Kärlek
Annette

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