Run Thru the Pain.
As a runner I have done this more times than I care to count.
Knee pain? No problem! I can finish the last couple of miles.
Shin splints? Ppppbbbt. I’m fine, it’ll go away in a mile or two.
Feet hurt? No worries – I may lose a toe nail…but who really sees those?
I remember going to get pedicures with a sheepish grin and shrug to the technician – “I’m a runner,” I’d say. And it’s amazing how the human body compensates. It’s totally natural to run with my right foot turned out, right?!
In the last 6 or so years, I’ve taken up ChiRunning. Not only has my running become more mindful, my every day life has too. Now, if something – anything – starts to talk to me during a run, I make adjustments as I go. Knee pain? I adjust my foot strike. No more pushing thru pain or limping around after a race.
I’ve found the same holds true for every day life. Too often we make every day sacrifices because it’s easier to be mindless or ignore those little whispers of “something isn’t right”. We rationalize and distract ourselves. And again, it’s amazing how the body compensates and backs up those whispers.
It’s not always easy to make the adjustment – sometimes you might even have to make several…but your body will thank you for it. Trust me.
What pain are you “running” thru?
