Is Running Meditation a Real Thing?

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Yes. And, no.

I run and I meditate. The two activities serve connected, yet slightly different purposes. They are complementary. Each can enhance the other. Both may be mindful practices. Yet, they are not equivalent. Running gets me out of my head. Meditation gets inside my head and has a look. As a team, they are a fantastic health duo.

These are the ways running gets me out of my head. We sweat out blocked toxins. Whatever we are ruminating about, whatever our perseverations, the physical engagement forces us to refocus. Our minds can float more than usual. Stuck thoughts loosen. Our attention shifts just enough to grant a reprieve from our anxieties. Better still, that more open mind space may yield new insights. I am often surprised and delighted by the ideas that pop up on a run. Running is one of the best ways to sluice failures, looming challenges, and other emotional distresses through the body. The bonus is that you just might find the solution to a nagging problem.

Running is also great opportunity to practice mindfulness. Moving our bodies in any way offers a chance to check in on how we feel physically, mentally and emotionally; to notice our breath; and to pay special attention to our surroundings. Because, whether we are conscious of it or not, our bodies and minds are in…