Running From Stress

Stress gets to the best of us. Sometimes we just have everything pile up at once and it seems like we just can't handle it. Well for me one way to cope is to run! I absolutely enjoy running, so naturally I realize that it is a natural stress reducer and a great way to stay in shape. I actually had the opportunity to be alone (that NEVER happens) and took advantage by doing 30 minutes of core training on my Sworkit app and then decided to run! 

If any of you follow me on Facebook, you would've seen the post about the slow old man on the treadmill. Well at my apartment complex we have a fitness room and I really only use the treadmill. Well I went down all 3 flights of stairs (I know I shouldn't complain lol) only to see that he was using it. So I waited an hour to go back.

One thing I really dislike about the fitness room is the smell. I have a really good sense of smell and yeah it isn't really pleasant in there, but with this FREEZING weather still here I don't have many options. So this is an idea I came up with to help myself. I take essential oils and put them on a tissue to smell on while I'm in there every now and again (and especially at first). 

This one has a citrus-y scent that kind of wakes me up and I really like it (obviously). I don't use much, just about a quarter of a dropper on the tissue.

I Feel Good by mia mariu

I only used half of this

Now back to running off the stress! My goal was 5 miles because I have been trying to work up my distance compared to time so I can run a half marathon in the fall. That is currently my fitness goal and I know I can do it!

I ended up running 4.97 because the treadmill stopped and I couldn't get it to start without deleting my already ran run. That's what I get for using the Quick Start button LOL. I finished it off by restarting the treadmill and running another half mile, just to compensate for me stopping for a minute. 

And you know what? I felt AMAZING after I ran. I certainly didn't look it as you can see below.

I turn into a lobster when I run. There is really nothing I can do about it haha! I just embrace my beet red face. But it is so worth it, red face and all. Now that doesn't mean that today doesn't have its own stresses or anything like that, but it definitely does the body good! If you aren't involved in a fitness routine, I will highly recommend starting somewhere! There are a lot of free apps on Google Play and I'm sure on the iPhone's as well. One is the Sworkit app and I have also used 7 minute workout. Sworkit is customizable and has a lot of options. I really am glad I was introduced to it! 

And find a buddy to work out with or someone you can tell your goals too so when you accomplish them, they can give you a high five. 

Just remember, our bodies are temples and we really need to take the best care we can of them. Stress is not good for anybody, so exercising to help eliminate or decrease stress is a great option.