I’ve been meaning to write about why I stopped running for a while.
Although this isn’t directly related to healthy desserts or recipes, I wanted to share in case it helps someone who might have felt like I did a few months ago.
If you came across my blog without knowing anything else about me, you might picture a perpetually cheerful person whose life revolves around food, chocolate, and desserts. In reality, the blogging version of me is only a small part of who I am. Much of my life has nothing to do with food, and I’m not always carefree.
Related: How I Started Blogging Full Time
Because I choose not to write about friends, relationships, or personal struggles on the blog, most readers wouldn’t have known I was anything less than upbeat earlier this year. Behind the cheery posts, I was feeling overwhelmed and exhausted from moving twice, going through a breakup, dealing with book issues, and worrying about what comes next.
In the past, I relied on running to get me through hard times.
I fell in love with running in college, when morning runs across fresh Pennsylvania air became a daily ritual. It replaced the energy I no longer used playing soccer and tennis and gave me time to think about school, friends, relationships, the past, the future—or nothing at all.
Over the years, running’s role changed. When I moved back to Texas it became a steady, comforting routine in a chaotic period. Four or five times a week, through sun or rain or snow, I would run 7 to 10 miles. I loved it.
But last summer I lost the energy and motivation for something that had once brought me so much joy. For the first time in eight years I dreaded going out for a run. I forced myself through miles and came home exhausted. Running had never felt like something I should force, so one day in early July when I was supposed to go out, I didn’t.
That one missed run turned into a week, then a month, then two months. I expected to miss it, but I didn’t. Instead I had more energy during the day, felt calmer and less stressed, and even noticed health improvements like less hair breakage from tight ponytails.
Some readers have noticed I gained weight, which I’d actually been trying to do for a while—I’ve always wanted curves. I’m not claiming quitting running directly caused the weight change; when I’m stressed I tend to lose weight, so feeling more relaxed and happier likely contributed.
Will I run again? Maybe someday, but more for enjoyment than obligation.
If running suits you, keep doing it. But if you’re burned out by running or any exercise, consider stepping back for a while. You can always return if the desire comes back.
I’m not recommending giving up exercise entirely. I still walk each morning for fresh air, and lately I’ve been going to the gym a few times a week with a friend. He handles the heavy lifting while I use lighter weights—and chat.
At first I worried that giving up running would cost me part of my identity. Instead, I’ve found I have more room for other things in my life now.
2014 Edit: Part Two: Why I Started Running Again
Recipe Of The Day:
Flourless Pancakes – 3 ingredients, no gluten, soy, eggs, or refined sugar