Medatative Running

Aside: This is the triumphant return of my blog, so expect more frequent updates in the future. We'll see how long I can keep this up before it dies again.

I recently started running (again) and have resumed a practice that I found refreshing and useful a few months ago. "Meditating", or clearing your mind, while running is an interesting and fun exercise. I first started thinking about it when reading about walking meditation. Then I ran across a post by Leo from Zen Habits that described being in the moment while running, which is essentially what I am trying to do. I won't go into too many specifics here, check out the previous post if you want to learn more about it. I will say, however, that one trick that helps me clear my mind and focus is that whenever distracting thoughts surface I acknowledge them, but then imagine them floating past me as I run by so they don't stick around for long.

If your a runner (or even if you're not) I suggest giving this a try and see if you like it. One of the important things to point out from the Zen Habits post is to try the concentration in bursts at first, since it is somewhat difficult to hold while your body is under stress.