Yesterday I did a 9 mile loop on this beautiful trail. My friend and I went the opposite direction than most people go. We wanted to tackle the beast of a hill and then have easy downhill for the second half. Well, let me tell you. That hill was a beast. It was horrible.
We conquered it. It felt amazing. The entire time we were laughing and having fun. Mostly laughing at how pathetic we were. It filled my heart to be out there.
Birds chirping. Squirrels running by. Evidence of deer on the trail. I felt so connected with nature and the earth yesterday. Now mind you, I’m not all frou-frou and mind’s eye. There is something about connecting with nature and feeling the dirt below my feet that centers me.
Trail running works more muscles in the leg and body than road running. It challenges your foot work. It tests your balance and coordination. My booty is sore today from that hill. It’s sore in spots that are not usually worked. And I love it!
Most of the people we encountered, whether they were solo or in a pack, were friendly. They were out there for the same reasons as us: get a workout in and enjoy nature. You don’t do the Liberty Lake Loop unless you want a challenge. Even if you go the way around the loop that most people do, it’s still difficult.
My heart was so happy out there soaking in the sun, smelling the trees, laughing, and sweating. That is why I trail run. To refill my cup. To heal my heart. To work my muscles. To LIVE!
So whether you have your pack of people or you go solo, get out there and connect with nature. Connect with your body. LIVE!
Trail Running and Wellness 