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Let’s talk about what it means to be present. Being present or being mindful simply means to be focused and fully engaged in the moment, without distractions or being mentally absent. When we focus on the present moment, we are simply engaged and paying attention to what is currently happening. This may seem easy enough but it can actually be quite challenging. This is because our minds like to wander.

“Wherever you are be all there”

-Jim Elliot

Being present on a run is as simple as:

• Listening to the sounds of nature (animals, wind, trees, water, etc.)
• Paying attention to your foot strike
• Noticing the scents around you
• Being aware of how we are physically feeling (sore knees, upset stomach, headache, etc.)

The list above is just a few examples but as you can see they all have something to do with the moment or activity at hand. By paying attention to aspects of the current moment we become present. It is important to note that being present or mindfulness is different than meditation which we will get into at another time but for now just remember that mindfulness is a quality and meditation is a practice.

On your next run I would encourage you to try to be present in your run. Remember that this is an activity that you chose to do so try to be present and enjoy it. You may become distracted and your mind may wander and that’s ok. That’s human nature. We will learn how to redirect our attention back to the present moment but for now focus on being present one step at a time.

Happy trails!