Thank you all so much for your kind and supportive words on Tuesday’s post. I should have known that you’d all be on my side and I didn’t have to worry about negative reactions to taking some time off. I’m still feeling really good about my decision, especially since my lunchtime walks have been SO NICE this week.
While this is the time of year when many runners are really starting to enjoy outdoor running again due to increased daylight hours and warmer temperatures, I’m just now taking time off from running for at least the next three weeks. In an effort to maintain some fitness and still get to spend time outside, I’ve been taking long, rambling walks on my lunch break. Ironically, these walks have been along some of my typical running routes.
While in the past this might have served to make me anxious or resentful about not running, I’m really enjoying the slower pace. I feel more entitled to stop and take pictures because it won’t “mess up my pace.” I can take my time picking my way over icy bits, or stop to pat dogs running by. There’s no pressure to hit a certain distance in a certain time. I can enjoy the sun on my face and the wind on my hair. That’s not to say that I’m just poking along, though; I’m keeping up a pretty brisk pace. I’m naturally a fast walker and I HATE walking slowly. I’m almost physically incapable of taking a “stroll,” something Ben is always harassing me about.
And even though it’s not the same as running, I’m getting a lot of the same happy feelings I get from running. It’s different, but a good different. I think if I keep up with my lunchtime walks, not running won’t be as much of a hardship as it might be otherwise.
When is the last time you took a nice long walk?
I try to walk a few times on my lunch break when I can’t run. My daughters love to go for walks and we went on one other day when my littlest one was sick – she wanted to some fresh air so I let her pick the destination of our walk.
I agree, walking isn’t running but it’s better then doing nothing.
Fresh air can really help me feel refreshed when I’m not feeling well–I’m glad you were able to get your little girl outside!
When it was warm, I used walk at lunch. Looking forward to doing that again soon.
It’s really a mood booster to get out of the office for a while!
I actually took a walk yesterday. Not a long one, but I love walks. and it looks like you had a very beautiful walk 🙂
I’m really lucky to live super close to a lake-front bike path, so I have a really nice place to walk 🙂
I LOVE taking walks! The dogs and the pictures are def. great aspects like you mentioned. They are just so relaxing. That’s actually how I started running! I was like “I just want to walk” next thing I know I’m running my walking route everyday 🙂 I also love hiking.. which is just like walking, but in the woods ❤
I love hiking too! Hoping to do more of it this summer.
When it was warm 😀
By myself? A few weeks ago (when I took the trapped building photo). I took one with Alex the other day. But during the summer (especially when I’m not at work), I HATE to be kept inside. Walking is just good for the soul. I’m glad that you are getting some of it in!
It’s SO NICE to get away from my desk and the office and get some fresh air and sunshine.
I love walks but have troubles motivating myself to actually take them. Lunchtime walks would be a great idea but I am usually so tired I end up napping in the break room, ha! That bridge looks cool!
If we had a couch, I’d totally nap at lunch sometimes too. But the walking actually helps to energize me a bit, which is nice. Those bridges are awesome–there are a few along the bike path and I love them!
I’m glad you’re enjoying your walks. The views look great!
It’s a really nice bike path. I can’t wait until the snow melts and things turn green–it will be even prettier!