Run, Reflect, Reset: Finding What Works For You

Ever feel like life’s moving too fast, and you’re just trying to keep up? Sometimes, you need to hit pause and reset. For me, that reset has always been running. No matter how busy life gets, I've found peace in my early morning runs. There’s something about the quiet of dawn—the world still waking up, the cool air on my face, the sound of my feet hitting the trail. It’s my time to clear my head and get ready for the day ahead.

Even with my love for running, it’s easy to let other things take over. Work, family, and endless to-do lists can push even the most important things aside. But on waking one particularly stressful morning, I knew I needed to run. I put on my running shoes and headed to the trails. In that early morning quiet, I remembered why I loved it so much. It’s not just about staying fit—it’s about finding a moment of peace and feeling like myself again.

The Magic of Early Mornings

There’s something special about early mornings. Everything is still, the air is fresh, and there’s a calm that sets the tone for the day. For me, running feels like hitting the reset button. It’s just me, the trail, and my thoughts. No distractions, no stress—just the rhythm of my steps and the beauty of nature waking up around me. These runs help me start my day clear-headed and ready, no matter what’s on my plate.

But I understand that early mornings aren’t for everyone. Maybe you’re more of a night owl, or your schedule doesn’t allow for a morning routine. That’s okay. The important thing is finding a time that works for you, when you can step away from the daily grind and focus on yourself.

Why Personal Time Matters

Life’s demands can easily overshadow our own needs, making it challenging to prioritise self-care. Taking time for yourself is crucial for both well-being and maintaining a clear mind. It’s about carving out space to recharge, whether through running, lifting weights, or another activity you enjoy.

Discovering What Works for You

Finding an activity that helps you unwind and reconnect is key. For some, it might be the rhythm of a morning run or lifting weights at the gym. For others, it could be a walk in the park, reading a book, or simply taking a moment to breathe. The goal is to identify what brings you peace and time for you to reflect and reset.

Useful Resources

 If you’re interested in exploring running or other outdoor activities, here are some resources that might help:

• Forestry England: Discover over 1,500 forests and woodlands across the UK, ideal for running, walking, or enjoying nature.

• National Trails: Explore 16 long-distance trails in England and Wales, perfect for scenic walks or hikes.

• AllTrails: Find hiking, running, and biking trails worldwide with detailed maps and reviews.

• Komoot: Plan your outdoor adventures with community tips and maps.

• Strava: Track your runs and workouts and connect with a global community.

• MapMyRun: Create and find running routes and monitor your progress.

Making Time for Yourself

When was the last time you did something just for you? Whether it’s a run, lifting weights, or another activity, finding what helps you feel grounded is essential.

hitting the trails