Sun or Shade?
Believe it or not, I do not like crowded spaces, large rooms, or talking in front of people. I like to go unseen. My favorite spaces are outside exploring the world around me, taking in every detail. I also love being with my friends and family, where I can just be imperfect me.
Unfortunately, most of my passions completely contradict all the above. I like to control almost every situation as much as possible. I will gather large groups of people so they can connect and grow their passions. I will cold call, door knock, text strangers, and speak in front of huge crowds of people. This creates so much anxiety inside.
So, I run. I run not to win a race or to be considered athletic. I run so I don’t go crazy. I run to release the stress that is inside of me because if I don’t, I may never move again. Sometimes I run on pavement and sometimes on trail. Each provides a different kind of therapy.
When I run on the road, I can get lost in my thoughts. I dream. I sing. I find resolutions. I create.
When I run trail, I stay focused in every moment. I look ahead to map out every step, but not too far ahead to miss what is right in front of me. On trail, you must pay attention to how the sun and the shade affect your perception of the terrain. If you don’t stay vigilant, you will fall.
This is what I want you to takeaway:
- First and foremost, you are not alone.
- Find your release.
- Find that sweet spot of focus.
I literally train myself daily on all the above. Find your mode of release, mediation, yoga, running, hiking, painting, whatever it might be, you too will find yourself training your mind on all of the above too.