Remember as a child the joy of running through the grass, or hoping from root to root in the woods! I have always loved to run, however as I matured I started to feel that I needed to run as much as I wanted it. Since high school I have been running short distances multiple times per week, however after the birth of my second son I was no longer able to run.
After giving birth to Pace last year in May I developed excruciating pain in my pelvis. After x-rays, and an MRI it was confirmed that I had not only torn a ligament in my right hip as well as pelvic joint, I also had developed arthritis in both areas. A black spot on my pelvis indicated that my bone was filling with blood and I would further injure myself if I continued to run. This was devastating, I am free when I run, connected to my thoughts, prayerful, and at peace. I was forced to give this up for nearly 1 year. In March of 2012 I was beginning to sleep through the night without the excruciating pain in my pelvis waking me multiple times per night to walk through the house in hopes of circulating the blood. I decided maybe I could start running again.
I carefully bought the best shoes, and gingerly ran 2 short but sweet miles. I felt the pain in my pelvis, but could live with it. I started running 3 days per week, finally feeling sort of like myself, but learning to manage daily pain. I noticed that as I ran I smiled, sometimes my eyes brimmed with tears knowing that arthritis doesn't go away, and I could wake up tomorrow unable to do something as "simple" as running. I woke up one day and made a decision. I don't want to live like this, in constant pain, always tired, and allowing a diagnosis to rule my life.
I started to research. I learned. I ran. I smiled. I appreciated. I decided.
Pain would not rule me. After much research I have discovered what seems like an answer. Eating a vegan, plant based diet will help reduce inflammation, and regulate circulation, all while reducing my risks for cancers and disease. I now step into a world I have never known. A world where green is the main portion of a meal, and grains, carbs and fats are only small sides. I am committing to this lifestyle for 60 days. Originally I set out for 30, however after 1 short week and endless energy I have decided to go for 60, in hopes that after 60 days I will never turn back.
Now for the running!!! In May of this year after having shin splints and knee pain from only running 3 miles at a time I decided to trade in my beautiful and expensive Brooks running shoes, and donned the ultra light weight new balance trail minimalist shoes. I began training for a half marathon, which I ran August 4th, and then signed up for 2 more half marathons, and a 25k and 30k and full marathon, all within the next three months!
I have built up my mileage, and hit my first ever 50 mile week last week! I am trusting my body, I have learned to let my legs lead rather than my head. Since changing my take on running, wearing minimalist shoes, and trusting my body, I have run injury free! I have much left to learn, but for now I am happy to just know I am doing what I was designed to do and loving every step of the way!
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