By Alta Roqueplot
In October 2019, I came across a challenge to run everyday from Thanksgiving to Christmas and I thought, "Why not? I'm going to need the extra miles to eat all those Christmas cookies!" What I didn’t expect was for God to put it on my heart to keep running. I had this strong sense that I needed to keep running every day even after Christmas. I kept thinking, "This is crazy— I run with my friends at 5 AM a few days a week, but they aren’t going to want to keep doing this every day!" I knew I was going to have to put a lot of miles in for myself if I followed God’s direction. I kept going.
On day 107 I started to understand God’s plan. Day 107 was when the world stopped because of COVID. I was thrown into a world I didn’t understand, I had people counting on me to keep them safe (in my job and at home) and no one knew what was going to happen next.
At that point in time, I truly could say, "I see what you are doing here, God." He knew I needed to keep running for my mind, my body, and my soul.
COVID has thrown us all for a loop and many of us are still searching for a way to deal with thoughts, fears, and anxieties. I have been running for over a decade, and this year, running truly has become my solace.
If you are searching for something to bring you solace from this year, I encourage you to get out there and exercise! I know some gyms [have changed their policies or] are closed, but there are so many things you can do at home. You can go for a walk, do a free YouTube video on any exercise known to man, join Beachbody Online, or you can just do some pushups or sit ups in your living room. Exercising just a half hour a day can build your immune system, put you in a better frame of mind, and make you feel good!
Whether you are just starting to exercise or getting back into it, here are 2 suggestions: start small and have someone to hold you accountable. My daughter recently started running and she wants to go out and run as far as she can. I have told her to start small— if you start big, you'll get frustrated and want to quit. You also need someone to hold you accountable. Find a friend to walk with or who will do workouts with you in your homes. You can text each other to give encouragement along the way. There are also social media groups that are are great for encouraging you to keep going!
The holidays are coming and I hope God puts it on your heart, as he did for me last holiday season, to start exercising for your mind, body and soul.
Want to improve your health but not sure where to start? We have just the thing! Natural Health & Wellness led by Jeanie Anderson is resuming Mon., Oct. 19.
There is no way to live a healthier lifestyle than to be informed. Jeanie shares information and tools to improve your self care that will lead to a positive change in your health, spirit, and life!
Alta Roqueplot lives in Sharpsville with her husband Jai Roqueplot (Grace Chapel Worship Leader), their 3 daughters Trinity, Eden & Adriel, and their fun-loving mini-Labradoodle Twilight. Alta has been a Human Resource professional for over 20 years and in her spare time enjoys running, reading, coaching her daughter's softball team, and spending time with family and friends.
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