Losing Weight VS. Running

People send me emails, contact me through Facebook, and call me asking me how I started running because they want to lose weight too. First I want to tell you that I always enjoy answering their questions and I am always flattered by the kind words they say to me. It is very encouraging. However, what I want people to know is that I did not start running nor do I continue running to lose weight.

I lost weight by changing what I eat. I eat whole foods, lots of fruit and veggies. I don’t eat much meat, oil, or dairy products. I have not cut any food from my diet and the only way I would encourage someone to give up a food group is if they were doing it for religious, moral, health, or environmental reasons. If I am hungry I eat. I try and sometimes fail especially if it is an all you can eat situation to only eat until I am no longer hungry. I also wish to point out that it took me 18 months to lose 100 pounds. So, while many people are just now noticing my transformation this has been a slow work of progress. I didn’t take diet pills or have any surgery. I did however pay attention to my calories and tried to stay above 1,600 and below 2,000.

I started running after I lost the first 50 pounds. For me running is my time. I get lost in my thoughts. I explore my emotions. I let go of my past. I forgive people. I forgive myself. During a run I push myself to run further and harder, to let go of the shame that haunts me and the fears that paralyze me. Running makes me feel strong, beautiful, and confident. I run because I know when I return from pushing my body’s limit to places I didn’t think were possible, I am ready to push on in other areas of my life. I run because it makes me feel alive. I run because I never thought I could and every time I go out there I am showing myself that I can do all the things I never dreamed possible.

I hope that all of you can find something that empowers you, gives you space, makes you feel confident, and brings out your inner beauty.