HOW RUNNING SAVED ME
Many people I come across in my current life find it hard to believe that running hasn’t always been a part of my life. When I tell them I’ve done adventure racing in beautiful places like Iceland, the Grand Canyon, through the Rocky Mountains, and along the beaches of North Carolina, they can’t believe that I didn’t start my running journey until 2010 when I began my life in recovery. This was the point in my life when I could finally focus on my health, do something that gave me purpose and for once, made me feel alive!
I had explored the world of running about 6 months prior to getting sober but learned very quickly that drinking excessively and running didn’t mix! Once I entered recovery, I had a lot of time on my hands and needed to lose weight, so it was a win-win situation for me. Running has been so much more to me than just putting one foot in front of the other. Running has been about experiences, meeting people, hearing their stories, reaching parts of my soul I never knew existed, and creating new life paths for myself.
I think that exercise, in any form, is such an important part of recovery. No, it doesn’t mean you can’t be successful if you don’t exercise, but it definitely helps in assisting in the process. I tell many people that ‘running saved me’….well actually hitting rock bottom and seeking help saved me, but running has kept me focused on my recovery. Whatever your exercise interest is, I believe it provides a focus for your recovery all while allowing you to enjoy something and get healthy. I have met some of the most amazing people while exercising. Whether you are running on the trails or pavement, on a yoga mat, or lifting weights, everyone has a story about how they got there. I think that is what makes this all so unique and beautiful.
If you have a story and would like to share it, please contact me at jaimemc@aol.com and I will be happy to guide you through the process.
www.heroesinrecovery.com
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