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I read with interest and what I got out of it was he mentally experienced what I've heard called is the "Runner's High!"

Have experience it a couple of times where your body can do no wrong... I ran and felt like I could go on forever... I wasn't setting any P.R's but in my head, I was just running for the enjoyment of running.

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Feb 7, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I'm interested, Terrell. I have been disappointed lately in my times so much slower in the cold weather! However, Mackenzie is making a good point if you're being too critical to back off and re-evaluate your goals. A good word!!πŸ’ͺπŸ‘ I have learned to love getting out in the cold. It is invigorating, and hopefully an immunity booster!!

So glad you're rebounding, Terrell πŸ˜πŸ’™πŸ’™πŸ’™πŸ’™

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Feb 7, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I'm reminded of Katie Arnold in her book Running Home. She had an amazing way of describing her thoughts--dropping all thoughts about running and becoming one with the earth and the sky and the Universe. It happens. It's not a goal. Once perfectionism becomes a goal, the magic vanishes.

Still this book has an interesting analytical perspective. Ask any Master if they are Perfect. They will say no, but there is always progress.

It would be nice to hear more more. :)

s

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Feb 7, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I completely agree on the thought of β€œcan perfectionism be reached?” In my mind also, there’s only one perfect being. That being said, I suppose the β€œperfect” run would be the state of complete bliss, ease, flow, and pure joy. Since being introduced to trail running, it has become my new β€œchurch”, if you will. I describe it as β€œthe closest thing to being with God” when it’s just you and nature.

The running buddy of mine that got me into trail racing, however, stresses me out when we do a trail race together. I came to a conclusion after our last race, which I kind of knew, but after seeing the results of races we did together and races I did on my own, I did worse on the races I did with her. I promise you, though, it’s not because she runs slower. Honestly, it’s the opposite. She takes off like a rocket and I have to do my best to keep up! I tell her over and over again to go ahead but she keeps laying low for me, which makes me feel bad. I like to take it easy in the first half of the race at least, conserving energy and enjoying the views. I’m not trying to beat anyone, but if I do then great! We have talks before the races where I say all this and she agrees, but then perhaps it’s the adrenaline rush or something that takes over her. I’m running behind her as she maneuvers our way through other runners, and I’m just trying to keep up! Then...spit ...sputter...cough...I have nothing left in the tank at the end. :(

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Feb 7, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I want to hear more! Love this!

I love being in the flow when I run. I agree it’s a mindset. Sometimes I get into it easily, & sometimes I have to really work at it.

Thanks for sharing this. I look forward to more conversations on this.

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Feb 10, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Terrell, I really enjoyed the article that was written in Runner's World on Daniel Lieberman and his new book,"Exercised: Why Something We Never Evolved to Do Is Healthy and Rewarding." Looks like something to put on my must read list.

Loved his comment on food where he says,"I’m a classic runnerβ€”I go to the refrigerator and open the peanut butter jar and have a spoonful." Me to the max. . . .!! :)

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Feb 8, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Adding a little play to anything can be the difference between fulfillment and burnout. Thank you Terrell.

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Feb 8, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I'm interested in this topic also! Thanks Terrell for sparking a thought provoking conversation. My magical runs are alone, at night, in the light of a beautiful moon. The deer who roam my neighborhood run with me sometimes. Their eyes glow like green orbs in the light of my headlamp. I like that neighbors cannot see me which frees me from any and all self doubt about what others think as I run by. (During the day some criticize my speed, others suggest I'm too old to run and will hurt my knees πŸ˜₯). At night, running unseen, it's just me...being me. πŸŒƒ

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Feb 7, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I’m interested too. At what point does the training plan for the next half marathon steal the benefits and enjoyment of running? I’ve let β€œthe training plan” become β€œit” too often and the pace time too important. Races help motivate me but I can lose focus on what matters most.

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