by Karley Chilombo, Guest Blogger and Editorial Intern for Compliment
Today is an exciting day because, in honor of National Running Day, I’m posting my first guest blog for Compliment about one of my biggest passions--RUNNING! I have always loved running so I’m thrilled to be able to share this.
I realized I was fast when I played soccer in my younger years and chose to pursue track throughout high school and developed my passion for it over the years. Running has allowed me to take time for me and to create a sense of inner peace that I try to carry within me. I never realized its glorious impacts until I was sixteen years old and I watched my dad suffer from cancer. I turned to running because it was something I knew I already enjoyed. It became my escape the best way I knew how to find my core happiness again.
It was empowering and allowed for me to free my mind of the negative things around me. Afterward, I would feel invigorated and refreshed from the calming and relaxation it created, which is exactly what I needed. I still feel the same way during and after a run. I usually let the flow of running clear my mind and focus on being fully present. I listen to really upbeat music mostly hip-hop or my go-to Girl Talk. I like hip hop when I’m running because it’s fast paced and some of the things they say are clever and amusing so I don’t mind a little chuckle here and there.
I get in my zone quickly and stay there the majority of my run and it’s a feeling best described as jubilation. I develop a continuous rhythm and radiate the positive energy flowing inside. I still get chills every time I run, especially when I pass someone on the bike trail or envision myself in a competition. (I can thank my mom for my competitive spirit!)
When I'm nearing the end of every run I sprint to my “finish line." I imagine I'm at one of my old track meets and I can see my college coach on the side and hear my high school coach in my head, “pump your arms kiddo!”
It goes without saying that there are numerous physical benefits to running, but I really just do it because it makes me feel good mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
Do we share this passion for running? If not, what exercises do you love? What got you started? What keeps you going? I’d love to hear in the comments below!
Stay well, Karley!
