Listening to my Body

I am dropping the countdown

MARATHON JOURNEY

Sarah Elizabeth

8/5/20262 min read

gray concrete road between green trees during daytime
gray concrete road between green trees during daytime

If you’ve noticed I haven’t been writing in this marathon section lately, it’s because I haven’t been running.

At first, it was because my seasonal allergies flared up really badly. But after that, the truth is simply that I didn’t feel like it. On top of that, my car’s transmission went, so I couldn’t get to the gym. While I can run outside—and I have in the past—I just haven’t felt called to do that right now.

Instead, I’ve been walking 5 miles or more almost every single day. I have the time for it, so I’ve been taking full advantage of it. I am staying active, eating better, and honoring where my body is at today. I still want to run a marathon, but right now, other areas of my life need my focus, and walking is serving me so much better.

A New Way to Train (No Pressure)

Moving forward, I am dropping the weekly countdown updates. I will still share what I’m doing to stay active, but there won't be a strict timeline attached to it. This section is no longer about racing against a clock—it’s about taking care of myself and building a foundation that will eventually get me to a place where I feel ready to run again.

The last time I got heavily into running, I knew I wanted to complete a marathon eventually, but I didn't rush into picking a date. I built myself up to 5 miles before I unfortunately injured my ankle.

This time around, I am refusing to put pressure on myself to be at a certain mileage by a certain date. When my body and life are ready, I will pick a marathon that aligns with where I am. Having a fluid plan feels so much better for my soul.

Creating My Own Blueprint

I am making sure every choice I make comes back to loving myself. I know I have the discipline to push myself hard like I used to, but I genuinely love what I’m doing right now. Slow and steady feels sustainable, and I know I can maintain it long-term.

I don’t need to follow someone else’s rigid plan. I need to listen to my own body and do what is best for me.

I encourage all of you to listen to your bodies, too. I share my thoughts and daily routines not so you can copy me, but to help you gather ideas and build a plan that works for your unique life. That is how I’ve learned every lesson on my journey—by listening to others, trying new things, and tuning into how my body feels during the process.

As always, please remember to consult with a doctor before starting or changing any physical routine or diet.

I love you

This is love