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I have had a lot of ‘why do you run?’ questions asked recently and seeing as today is the first day of Miles for Mind, I thought it would be the perfect chance to explain why.
I was brought up running, my dad used to run half marathons and marathons and I was brought up watching the spectacle that was the sea of colours passing by, the grown men and women crying, achieving something they did not think was possible.
In 2015 I was diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disorder and has since been an ever-present figure in my life. Running ended up being the best sort of therapy for my condition. I was never sporty at school; I was THAT student who regularly tripped over their feet during netball.
However, following a really tough few months, I decided to do the unthinkable and sign up to a half marathon. Bearing in mind I could not run 1 mile at this point, this was something I never ever thought was possible. Somehow, I got around alive and the rest is history. No I try, where possible, to run four times a week and the rush it gives you is phenomenal. I have tried medication and CBT but, for me, running is by far the best medicine (and much cheaper!!) I will not lie to you, sometimes it is a struggle, overcoming numerous injuries and accepting I am never going to Paula Radcliffe but distinctly average- but it doesn’t matter!
You are outside, pumping yourself full of positive energy and proving to yourself- that you know what? Yes I can!!
I have joined a running club (Fareham Crusaders) and it is a fantastic place where i have met new friends who not only support you but push you to achieve your goals. It is through them that I am inspired to run a marathon, which for the un-sporty kid at school is quite an achievement. I have run 4 half marathons, countless 10k’s and over 60 Parkruns so honestly, I encourage each one of you. Give it a go, set yourself a big goal, pick up some running shoes and go explore, I promise you, you won’t regret it! Honestly!
Hannah xx
@hannahlou_runs
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