Week 5: Personal Journey Stronger, Faster, Freer

The snowflakes paused long enough to clear the driveway after a 6 mile run on the treadmill. As I re-entered the house, my shorkie, Moto wagged his tail and looked excitedly out the front door. He clearly wanted to get out for a walk.

The clouds over Michael Drive were intense- tangible, cumulous clouds in shades of deep blue-gray. In a few places, a blue sky and sunshine shone through, forming what appeared to be a canyon in the sky. The brisk walk and cool air felt invigorating as my little dog pulled excitedly on the leash.

It was at the top of the cul-de-sac that I realized the poor dog had pulled one leg completely out of his jacket that served as his harness. He was essentially wearing the equivalent of a cold-shoulder sweater for women. Still, despite the odd way it pulled at his chest, he didn't want to slow down for me to fix it. He lept like a little rabbit through the snow that rose to his shoulders. He dug into little hills in the snow and sniffed around, raising his face to show puffs of white around his whiskers. He was so free and so happy; he didn't even glance at the long driveway that led to our house on the way down the hill.

After digging around in the snow a bit more, I could tell Moto needed to get home. One of his hind legs gets really stiff, and he hops around awkwardly when he's too cold. Despite the prickly feeling I was getting in my fingertips, I felt content and peaceful- energized.

This is when I realized the full benefit of the five weeks of consistent workouts and nutrition. I didn't need to nap. I felt energized and calm- a sense of peace at 4pm- after running 6 miles, shoveling, doing general housework, and working for school and work here on my business. In fact, I felt the joy in the work and the process of getting fit. I can feel how strong my legs are when I'm running. I can feel the push of my lungs and heart in an incline and then the calm as my heart rate settles in and my breathing becomes smooth and easy again.

There is a strength and joy in the process. While I lost at least a pound this week (I forgot to measure when I'm supposed to), the biggest benefit this week has been in my ability to feel more present, clear-headed, and grateful for the gift of having a body that can move and push and experience this world.

My advice to others on week 5 is to notice how good it feels simply to be alive. Notice your energy, your presence, and your increased stamina. Notice your determination. You have already overcome 5 weeks of physical training. That's something to be proud of. You should give yourself some praise.

With love,

LeeAnn