I used to be a regular runner, and I think one of the worst parts about chronic illness has been having to give that up. Between the joint pain, being too exhausted to run in the first place, and the exercise-induced flare-ups, it's really discouraging.

But I loved running. It was my therapy. It was my time to switch off. Mindfulness before I knew mindfulness was a thing. Time out in fresh air, under the sun, in nature.

So one of the things I look back on and wish desperately to have again is that feeling. The breeze guiding you on and that post-run high.

I think if I really wanted to, if I wanted to make it a priority, I could run again. I could gently work my way back up to my weekly 30k. I think motivation and beating that discouragment that comes as a result of trying and then spending several days down for the count are factors that can be overcome.

So I decided to sign up for Dubai Run, an annual marathon that allows you to choose your distance. A socially distanced community event. The run this year allows you to take your dog. Yes! Again my dog is my saving grace, a source of motivation (she is a sighthound, born for running, and needs more activities like this). And the 2k dog run is easily achievable with two weeks training.

And I'm hoping that I can find space for this in my life again. Because I think once I get over that initial hurdle and ease my body into running again, that it will be ok, and it will help me. And I can be that girl who runs again.

#iusedto #Running #exerciseintolerance