Welcome

Hey hey, happy Daylight Savings to everyone who lives where it's the law. I personally hate the few days around the spring forward because I'm more tired than usual. Takes some time to adjust.

I'm writing this to say hello and welcome to my blog! I've created more than a few of these in my lifetime, all for various reasons, but this one here is pretty specific.

For much of my life, I've dealt with depression and anxiety, the former being worse most of the time. I also was not interested in exercising. Working out, going to the gym, nah, not for me. I did not learn of the mental and emotional benefits of physical activity when I was younger, and even after I did, I really thought nah, not for me. I'm much more likely to read a book for hours than spend hours at the gym.

But lack of exercise, life changes, etc, were truly taking their toll; I don't know how long I haven't really been myself. I was desperate. Nothing I ever tried really worked, and I've always been reluctant to try medication, though I know it works for many many people.

Last December, I had reached yet another very low point, approaching rock bottom. 2019 was mostly a good year, but something in me snapped. I knew I had to actually DO something. So I purchased a daily running journal for 2020 and said "January 1st, I start walking, no matter the weather."

And that's exactly what I did.

Now, as of yesterday at 67 days, I've walked for at least 15 minutes every single day, slowly increasing my time and mileage. And yesterday I hit a huge milestone: 100 intentional miles walked.

I may have cried a little when I realized how much walking has changed me in the past two months. The good habit has crept into everything, and it's also making me realize I do actually like working out.

So now, the purpose of this blog is to continue walking, and journal that, until those walks become runs and I'm participating in 5ks and 10ks and eventually a half marathon. Because when my feet take me places, I feel like I'm on top of the world. I love to fly like the wind, and the feeling of my feet pounding and leaving the pavement beneath me.

Welcome to Elisabeth Runs.
I hope you enjoy this journey as much as I do.