I have gained a true understanding of exactly what running has meant to me this past year. That, along with my turbo kick, has created this awesome outlet mentally for me. Sure, my physical being has changed considerably.. but I had no idea how much my mental and emotional state had been affected by exercising.
In January I had a minor procedure conducted that has caused me to have restrictions for the past month. Technically, people heal within 1 month; however, I can't see my physician until March 3rd for release. That will mark 6 WEEKS of no exercise. It has been unbelievable how it has affected me. Not only have I become totally depressed, my clothes fit different, my attitude is crappy and I generally feel ill. Sure, I'm certain most of it is "in my head". My biggest pet peeve in life is being told I CAN'T do something. Everyone knows I can do anything I want (spoken like the true baby of the family)! But I honest have learned that I have grown to love exercise... that rush of adrenaline and pushing your body to perform in a way you never thought it could. Allowing yourself to indulge in a piece of cake because you know you will work twice as hard tomorrow to work it off. Knowing that my body was changing in a way that I didn't think possible at my age and seeing the direct results of my efforts.
So I have waited all this time. Not so patiently either, I might add. I've complained alot - not of the pain, of the endurance of waiting. I know I am the most inpatient person but now so does everyone else!
So thank you to all my friends, neighbors and family who have given me words of encouragement. Thank you for listening me drone on and on and on about having to wait to exercise. Really, if that is the worst thing that ever happens to me I am a VERY, VERY blessed woman!
So tomorrow, the shoes are going on. The laces are being tied. I'm not waiting anymore. I feel great - I'm taking it slow and I will enjoy every single step of my run. I will look forward to the one after that, and the one after that. And I promise to never take for granted again my ability to lace my shoes and hit the ground running!
