I tackled a new lake for my run this past weekend. Yesterday, I started my route along the East side of Lake Calhoun and continued beneath the bridge to circle the Lake of the Isles for a windy, sunny and fulfilling 6.3 mile run. I managed to pull off the run in 1:13:17, which equates to 0:11:38 a mile, and I'm pleased to say my pace was pretty consistent throughout. Finally, I'm no longer starting too fast and losing steam in the last few miles.
Picturesque mansions encircle the Lake of the Isles, and it was nice to escape and dream a little about what it might be like to live in one of those houses. I needed that escape after my hectic and draining work week.
I was nervous and resistant to getting out for this run, since I hadn't gone out for a run of any kind in over a week. As of late, I've been arriving home from work well after dark, thus foregoing my weekday training runs. Because I hadn't been logging the miles, I started worrying that I had lost too much time and training to truly be ready for my upcoming 10 mile race. Brian encouraged me to get out on Saturday and give it a go. So I did. I ran without expectations, I focused on staying relaxed, I aimed to run in the moment instead of worrying about the next mile, or the work I had to do after my run was complete...I was pleasantly relieved that the 6.3 felt rather effortless. Perhaps I can pull off the upcoming 10-miler after all....just 2 more weeks. 2 more weeks where work will no doubt post some serious obstacles in the form of stress and long hours, but I refuse to let that be an excuse.
When I'm able to commit to running, it is the best opportunity for stress relief and meditation that I have ever come across. I prefer to run alone for this reason (and because I'm super slow). When I run, I feel more in tune with myself and the world around me, I let go of the expectations and doubts I have about myself. Such good feelings...I really deserve to treat myself to a good run more often.
Way to go Molly! Good Job!
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