And so it begins…

Week One, Day One: 25 March

I have downloaded the app, got into my gym gear, and have one of my dogs ready to go with me (the other one is old and her legs are far too short for this sort of thing).

The sun is shining, there is frost on the ground, and since it is 7am there is no one around. Off I go. A five-minute warm-up walk, which I took in my stride (Ha ha!), was followed by runs of 60 seconds interspersed with brisk walks of 90 seconds. I had no idea how long 60 seconds could seem, at times it felt like hours! I really wasn’t sure I was going to make it. I felt truly awful but I managed to keep going, plus Dog really enjoyed the run.

There was one slight difficulty when I started to run around a field and the ground got very bumpy; I nearly twisted my ankle. I then reverted to running up and down the path which confused Dog. She is usually right next to me so I was a bit concerned when looked round and couldn’t see her. She was just over the other side of the field (panic over). We both made it home safe and sound, and once my lungs stopped burning I felt exuberant! (*Due to my lack of confidence with the English language I just had to look this up. I do this often, I write a word thinking it is what I want to say, then start doubting myself and have to look it up to be sure). Exuberant adjective, full of energy, excitement and cheerfulness; yes, that about sums it up.

It felt like a marathon; but, in fact, today I ran for a total of 8 minutes and I feel chuffed to bits.

If you are thinking of doing something similar take care to stay safe.

To do this I am:

• Keeping social distancing. I aim to get out by 6.30am (I am a lark not an owl), so there are very few people around, and if I do meet them I stay 2 meters away.
• I have my phone with me, and someone knows where I am going and when I am due back.
• And, of course, I have Dog with me.

Top tips to keep you safe and well during this strange time.

• Keep to the self-isolating and social distancing rules.
• Keep in contact with friends, family, and, of course, Restore.
• Find a routine and stick to it (I can’t emphasize enough how important this is)
• Every day do something for your physical and mental well-being. On the days I am not running I go out for a walk. I am also doing a 21-day meditation challenge with 2 friends. This benefits my well-being as well as keeping me connected every day. There are plenty of meditation apps out there, but if that isn’t your thing then find something that nurtures your soul. This can be as simple as listening to the birds sing or gazing up at the stars.
• Set yourself a challenge. This could be big or small, it’s entirely up to you.

These are just a few ideas and there are plenty more out there. The Restore website has a directory of useful and trusted websites with information, tips and ideas, here.

The Reluctant Jogger and Dog