Finding Balance When Life Takes You Off TracK
As many of you know, I’m a trail runner. I am fortunate enough to be able to hit the trails 3-4 times a week with my rescue mutt, June. There’s truly nothing like the feeling of the earth beneath my feet, surrounded by trees and the elements, with the freedom to clear my mind as I move. But as I’ve gotten older, healing from injuries takes longer—and that, in turn, impacts my mental health.
Without movement, my mood tends to dip. Recently, I injured my foot running up a mountain, and I likely made it worse by pushing myself to finish the run. DO NOT DO THIS! Now, I’m sidelined with an injury and have no running in my life for the time being.
This situation isn’t easy for me. So, I wanted to share a few things that help me improve my mood when running is off the table. These are just my personal strategies, and I’m not expecting them to work for everyone, but I thought I’d offer them up in case they resonate with someone else.
1. Try Other Forms of Exercise
I may not be able to run, but I can still move my body. I’ve found solace in going for walks and practicing yoga. It’s not the same as running, but it helps me stay connected to my body, release some tension, and improve my mindset.
2. Read a Book
Books are my escape. They have the power to transport me to different worlds, helping me take a break from my current reality. I love getting lost in a good story, especially when I’m feeling stuck in my own mood.
3. Sit in Nature
If you can’t run, sit. Being in nature—whether it’s on a bench or just laying on the grass—grounds me and helps me regain perspective. Even without the physical movement, there’s something healing about just being present in nature’s embrace.
4. Don’t Keep Your Feelings to Yourself
It’s easy to bottle things up, especially when you’re feeling frustrated by an injury or other challenge. But sharing your feelings with someone—whether it’s a friend, a family member, or a therapist—can provide a huge emotional release. You don’t have to go through it alone.