Blessed are the flexible for they will not be bent out of shape

Week One, Day Three: 30 March

The app says to have a day of rest between each run. Since there are three run days per week, there has to be a two-day rest to follow the structure week by week. Therefore, as I had started mid-week I decided to take a day of rest in-between each run until I got to starting a new week on a Monday and then I would do Monday, Wednesday and Friday and take the weekend off. However, this went a bit awry this weekend because I was supposed to run on Sunday morning but was feeling rather jaded because I went to a virtual party on Saturday night! Using Zoom, a group of friends from Brighton, Newbury, and Oxford got together. It was a bit strange, but ultimately lots of fun, and it was really lovely to be able to see my friends. So the third run was put off until today.

I have been working at putting some music on my phone because the app will run on top of music and this was partially successful. I found out that Nirvana are great to run to. Unfortunately, it kept stopping after one track, then I would have to get my phone out to put the next track on which wasn’t ideal, so work to be done on that! So, how did I get on with my third run? It wasn’t easy. In no way could I say that it was easy. No, easy is not a word I would use to describe it, but do you know what, it was easier. With the app you have a choice of celebrity voices to coax you through and give you encouragement. I have had comedienne Sarah Millican asking me if I am ready for my next run. For the first two runs, every time she asked I responded with ‘NO!’ (I a am big fan of talking to myself or inanimate objects, I often engage in conversation with the self-service check outs in the supermarket). But then today, when she said ‘Are you ready for your next run?’, I said ‘Yes’. I didn’t plan it, or think about it, I just responded naturally.

So, that is the first week done! And I am very pleased with myself. I have had a sneaky look at week two as I know it is going to be harder and I didn’t want my second thoughts to start up again. Now I know what to expect I’m feeling less anxious about it which is brilliant.

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