Those who know me well know I am a spiritual person, but do not push my religious beliefs. This entry is not intended to be anything more than sharing.....
This entry is dedicated to my friend, and former pastor Rev. Ken Harrington, at Hope United Church of Christ in Alexandria, VA.
This last week I spoke to my friend Ken about life and the trials we go through. He told me how impressed he was with my running and weight loss. What I forgot to tell him was that I also use my running as a way to be closer to God. I have read "Running the Spiritual Path" by Roger Joslin. This book is about how to use running as a time for prayer. I have found it an excellent way to have my one on one with God.
I time everything with my breathing, and focus on that. This becomes a meditation for me. While I do this I am aware of other thoughts which come into my head. I acknowledge those thoughts, and then get back to my breathing/meditation.
I usually use a chant or saying as I breathe in and out. Mine is "World Peace." I learned this while taking yoga last year. Inhale - world - exhale-peace. It really helps with focus and with meditating. I also run a bit easier.
Some people have actual prayers they say. Others just use a word like Christ, God, or Believe. I suggest toying around with phrases or words until you find one which works for you.
I have little time to go to church, so I find this one on one time while I run really helps me. I would be interested in hearing if other people do this, and how they feel.
:-)Charlie
3 comments:
Heard about your blog on Phedippidations. I've just started blogging and checking out those who run/blog and think you're doing a good job of discussing the personal side of running. Keep it up!
There must be something in the air, Charlie. I recently started meditating (in the most secular way, of course) ;>) , and just last week I registered for a Tai Chi course. I'm trying to do some walking meditation as well, but I find that more difficult than the sitting practice. Too much distraction, I guess. So when I walk, I just walk and try not to fret too much.
Anyway, I'm pleased for both of us. If we keep this up, we'll be skinny and enlightened. What a plan!
Hey Brian...
Thanks for checking out my blog. I really appreciate it. It's one thing to just talk about the miles, like a log, but really talking about what running means is a big thing to me.
Keep reading, and always feel free to comment.
Charlie
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