I started running when I was just 8 years old. Even at that young age, I knew that running was more than just a sport for me—it was a feeling I loved. It made me feel free, safe, and completely myself. As I grew older, that feeling stayed with me, pushing me to pursue running at a higher level. It led me to a college scholarship, where I competed at the NCAA Division I level. During those years, I achieved some of my proudest milestones, including a 5K personal record of 16:28 and qualifying for the NCAA D1 prelim rounds in outdoor track.
However, like many athletes, my journey wasn't always smooth. I faced my share of ups and downs, both physically and mentally. The pressure of maintaining fast times, combined with the inevitable comparisons to other high-caliber athletes, took a toll on my mental health. Despite these challenges, I stuck with it. I pushed through the doubts and setbacks, eventually setting a personal record in the half marathon at 1:19.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned from my running journey is the power of consistency. There were times when it felt like I was going nowhere, making no progress at all. But it was discipline and dedication over time that ultimately brought out the best in me. It wasn’t always about running the fastest; it was about showing up, day in and day out, regardless of how I felt. That perseverance became my strength.
Running has evolved for me over the years. What began as a simple feeling of freedom as a child grew into something much deeper—a realization that we have the power to shape our reality through our feelings. This understanding led me to incorporate meditation into my routine, both before and after my runs. By meditating and setting intentions, I found a new way to connect with the mental side of running. This practice not only enhanced my performance but also brought more positivity and joy to every run.
Meditation taught me to tune into the truth of my own nature and the power of self-expression. It helped me focus on the feeling I wanted to experience on my runs—whether it was freedom, strength, or joy. This shift in mindset transformed my relationship with running. Now, before each run, I set an intention and meditate on the feeling I want to embrace during my workout. This practice has enriched my experience, aligning my thoughts with my actions and bringing a sense of peace and fulfillment to my journey.
Today, I find immense joy in aligning my mental health with my running. The journey has taught me that the mind is just as crucial as the body when it comes to performance and personal growth. It's not just about hitting new personal records; it's about the harmony between mind, body, and spirit.
I am now open to coaching both meditation and running, eager to share the tools that have brought me so much clarity and joy. I believe that running is more than just a physical activity; it's an expression of our innermost feelings and desires. By combining the discipline of running with the mindfulness of meditation, we can enhance our experiences and unlock a new level of mental resilience. This journey has been one of the greatest gifts of my life, and I look forward to helping others find their own path to self-expression and freedom through running.
