Need to Run

in All Posts

Know the feeling?

2012-09-24_0929

I was out the door at 7:45 PM last night.  As I walked out, I said the above statement and mentally filed it under “things moms say.”  But rest assured that I said it many times in my pre-mommy days!  Sometimes a woman really needs a run.   

 

It was dark out by the time I left.  I need to buy a headlamp and a reflective vest today (any headlamp recommendations?).  I have a feeling more and more of my runs will take place after Henry goes to bed.

photo

2.5 miles later, I came home feeling much, much better about life in general.  And then the Husband’s grandparents arrived for a week-long visit, which was so exciting.  Pretty neat that Henry gets to meet so many of his great-grandparents.  Grandpa brought over the Boyle family tree, which the family can trace all the way back to 1775 (all in London!). 

 

Breakfast before everyone else got up:

IMG_1801

Pumpkin waffles – just pureed pumpkin in waffle mix.  Here comes autumn!

IMG_1802

So – let’s discuss: “Trust me, you want me to go on this run.”  Is a run your ideal stress reliever?  Has your spouse ever told you to go on a run mid-‘discussion?’ (Mine has! LOL)  Or do you unwind another way?  Like couch time?

{ 52 comments }

 

  • Whitney September 24, 2012, 9:42 am

    A run always does the trick for me! I go out with an attitude and by the time I get back home I am a changed woman! lol In the beginning hubs would always give me a hard time about running so much and not sleeping in. Now he finally understands that my mood is 10 times better after a run and encourages me to get one in, too funny! 🙂

    Have fun with your family!

  • Caroline September 24, 2012, 9:45 am

    Running or walking is a great stress reliever for me. While it’s certainly not the only way I unwind, it’s a great way after a day at work.
    I just wrote a post on it here: http://fightingforwellness.wordpress.com/2012/09/06/exercising-for-stress/

  • Irina @ Chocolatea Time September 24, 2012, 9:46 am

    I totally know the feeling! Sometimes your body craves a run because it might just be that temporary insanity cure during tough times. I find that my thoughts are much more positive after running too 🙂

    Happy Monday!

  • Ashley @ My Food 'N' Fitness Diaries September 24, 2012, 9:46 am

    Running is definitely my greatest stress relief! If I truly just try to “relax” when I’m stressed, sometimes it does me more harm than good because my mind starts going crazy again. I’m glad you had a great run!

  • Lindsey September 24, 2012, 9:51 am

    It totally is/was! I have been side lined for 3 months almost and not running has left me feeling way more stressed than usual.

  • margaret September 24, 2012, 9:53 am

    the new balance baseball hat with the LCD lights works great for me in the dark.

    • Caitlin September 24, 2012, 10:05 am

      link????

  • Bari September 24, 2012, 9:58 am

    I just did my first super dark long run this weekend and bought this hat for it. I always wear a hat, so I thought this was a good compromise btwn hat and headlamp (which I thought might drive me crazy). It isn’t super bright, but it did the trick.
    http://www.newbalance.com/Tri-Viz-Running-Cap/NB-3021,default,pd.html?dwvar_NB-3021_color=Grey_with_HI-Viz%20Pink_and_White&start=2&cgid=213500

  • Alexis September 24, 2012, 9:58 am

    http://www.energizer.com/lighting-products/work/industrial/Pages/contractor-3-led.aspx

    My go-to headlamp recommendation. It’s around $10, always at Wal-Mart and lately I’ve seen it at Target. It’s lightweight and reliable…the white light is bright and the red light is great for night reading (attracts less mosquitos).

    I’ve never run with it, and since the strap is thinner than many other headlamps, you might have to really tighten it. However, I think the fact that it doesn’t weigh much will counter that. Fancier headlamps can get very heavy. (I lived in rural West Africa for a few years and currently do a lot of field work in Africa. I’ve used MANY headlamps, and this is the model I always come back to.)

  • Natalie @ Free Range Human September 24, 2012, 10:00 am

    I don’t do a whole lot of running, but working out in general is my stress reliever! I hope you have a wonderful visit with your family 🙂

  • Army Amy* September 24, 2012, 10:02 am

    Running is by far my go-to stress reliever! I have def told my husband before, “I have to run right now!” we recently traveled from Germany to the States, and it took over 24 hours of travel time. You can bet I was up early the next morning for a short run to de-stress.*

  • Laura September 24, 2012, 10:02 am

    I love this! Sometimes my boyfriend and I will both declare the need to run RIGHT THAT SECOND and we will be like, I’m going running…no I’M going running… Then we’ll argue about that…. Haha. Then we will proceed to run out of the house in opposite directions. About .5 miles in, I just start laughing and so does he about how ridiculous it all is. But it definitely is a stress reliever for both of us. We also have some of our best talks about important topics on walks. Maybe it’s easier for me to be honest and more upfront when we’re not directly facing each other and I can just swing my arms in frustration. Haha

  • Katie September 24, 2012, 10:04 am

    That’s great! I think I’m guilty for needing to sleep. I find yoga and strength training as good stress reducers for me.

  • kathleen @ the daily crumb September 24, 2012, 10:05 am

    yes, a run definitely helps when i’m feeling overwhelmed. there’s nothing like zoning out with some music and your thoughts. glad it made you feel better!

  • F. Plvan September 24, 2012, 10:06 am

    Don’t waste your $ on an expensive headlight–just get one of those blinking lights they put on dog collars. You should be able to find one at any sporting goods/outdoor adventure store.

  • vsk September 24, 2012, 10:07 am

    For a headlamp, I would suggest going to REI (or checking the website) or Campmor.com. Just get something bright. It will probably bug you a it at first, but you’ll get used to it. I would liken it to how you get used to a camelbak after a few runs. If it’s itches your forehead, try wearing it with a visor or hat so it can rest above the brim. I have this model from REI: http://www.rei.com/product/799819/black-diamond-moxie-led-headlamp

    It’s really bright and lights enough of the path for me and another runner.

  • Rebecca @ Blueberry Smiles September 24, 2012, 10:10 am

    Going for a long walk is my ideal stress reliever, but runs aren’t a far second. I was craving a run last night, but it was too late and I couldn’t get my body off the couch- blah.

  • Lindsey September 24, 2012, 10:28 am

    I had my first run this morning after a 6 week hiatus due to AWFUL morning sickness. Needless to say this is the happiest Monday I’ve had in awhile 🙂 I bought a cheapy Target headlamp a few years back that still works great. I put off running with one for awhile because I thought the light would bounce annoy me. I was happily surprised by how little it moves. I wear a hat or visor beneath the lamp to help it stay secure. You can find them in the sporting goods section of Target. Mine is similar to this one: http://www.target.com/p/energizer-6-led-headlight/-/A-11234023

  • Katie @ Peace Love & Oats September 24, 2012, 10:28 am

    Just being outside is a huge stress reliever for me! And that’s so great that Henry’s great grandparents are flying in all the way from London to spend time with you all!

  • Stellina @ My Yogurt Addiction.com September 24, 2012, 10:37 am

    I feel sooooooooo much better after I run! Seriously I feel like I can conquer the world. Nothing gives me that feeling like running does!

  • Jamie September 24, 2012, 10:38 am

    For me, its yoga. My husband understands this from seeing the before yoga and after yoga versions of me enough times and encourages me to go when he can see I need it. We all benefit when I go to yoga 🙂 It’s great to have an outlet like that…running, yoga, whatever it may be. be safe on your night runs!

  • Libby September 24, 2012, 10:41 am

    My husband did that Friday afternoon – “you should go for a run now” – and he was sooo right.

  • LizW September 24, 2012, 10:45 am

    My hubby wears this reflector thingy and likes it lots. And it’s very visible – and low profile
    http://www.rei.com/product/772529/amphipod-xinglet

    🙂

    • Liz September 24, 2012, 11:09 pm

      That’s the one I use; I was going to recommend it too.

  • Michelle @ Eat Move Balance September 24, 2012, 10:50 am

    Hilarious . . . if my husband thought of it, I’m sure he’d love to tell me to “go for a run” once in awhile. lol.

  • Emma September 24, 2012, 11:04 am

    http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0027GTF92/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00
    I got this one recently for early morning runs and it works well, I don’t feel it though it is not super bright

  • TiffanyS September 24, 2012, 11:32 am

    Yes, the hubby often kicks me out. I resist and say but I have so much to do. Nope, just go. Even the kids say, “Do you need to go to bootcamp Mom”? I think they can all tell when I’ve had enough. Exercise has definitely become my outlet since my second boy was born. I go crazy if it goes too many days.

  • Colleen September 24, 2012, 11:46 am

    I second that statement completely! I really got into running in college as a stress reliever and continue to use it as such. If I can’t run (three pregancies) I try to walk 2-3 times a day. Walking is the best work stress reliever during lunch hour. 1775? That is amazing and an awesome gift to give someone. I think the furthest my family has been traced was back 3 generations so far.

  • Stephanie @ Food and Fitness 4 Real September 24, 2012, 11:54 am

    I did not start running until after I had kids. I found it was a great stress reliever and the best way I could fit “me time” into my day. I joke that sometimes I run just to run away from my kids, but I do always come home feeling much better afterwards.

  • Kelly September 24, 2012, 11:55 am

    While negotiating our schedule I’ll say”well ill just go for as ride tomorrow”. At which point my husband will vehemently disagree because if i don’t go for my regular bike rides i get “bitey” lol.

  • Kristen L September 24, 2012, 11:59 am

    I totally understand the need to just get out and run or go to the gym. Moving the body a little can do SO much to decrease stress levels. My husband sometimes tells me I need to get “aired out”. Haha.

  • Tanya September 24, 2012, 12:08 pm

    Since they were very small, my kids have responded to my being cranky with ‘Mom, did you go for your run today?’

  • Stephanie September 24, 2012, 12:28 pm

    As soon as I saw this post I got up and dressed and went to the gym. To which I haven’t been in 2 months, so thank you! I have 2 bulging discs. L3/l4 & l5/s1, and I never know what workouts to do that wont aggrievate my back. Do you have any suggestions?

    • Caitlin September 24, 2012, 12:30 pm

      Oh my! Be careful. Talk to your doctor… but swimming is probably the safest! I <3 swimming.

  • Theresa September 24, 2012, 12:35 pm

    This is a great headlamp with many different features. REI has them, I got one on sale for $25 when they came out with the newest model.

    http://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en-us/shop/mountain/lighting/spot-headlamp?gclid=COyR-r7SzrICFQXhQgodVCAAKQ

  • K @ Finding a skinnier me September 24, 2012, 1:13 pm

    Right now I am a wreck because I can’t run or do much of anything physical. I am still recovering from my wisdom teeth removal and now I have a cold. Yuck. So yes, I think my husband might go a little crazy soon if I don’t get better soon and be able to relieve some stress with yoga, running or bike riding. HECK I might go crazy!!!! LOL 😉

  • Grace @ Grace Dishes September 24, 2012, 1:23 pm

    I can totally relate! When I’m exercising and active, I feel so much better mentally. I had one of those moments this morning when I realized I need to RUN. I got 4.8 miles done and it felt great.

    That pumpkin waffle looks AMAZING!

  • Liz @ Tip Top Shape September 24, 2012, 1:27 pm

    I feel like my “need to run” is more “need a cookie”. lol

  • Julie September 24, 2012, 1:29 pm

    I’m not a runner, but walking (or biking) for sure is a huge stress reliever for me! There have been many times I’ve been “in a mood” & knew I needed to get my cardio on. ALWAYS feel tons better afterwards!

  • Jackie@ MuscleUpMom September 24, 2012, 1:36 pm

    Yes, yes and yes! My husband knows to discount anything I say/whine/cry/yell as I’m on my way out the door for a run. Then when I come back all nice and sweaty and nice, he generously forgets I was crazy mean before.
    I’m big into the late night dark out runs…my husband gets home at 7 pm and that’s my only chance to run outside (ie, not use the day care at the gym and then run on the treadmill). Now that baby #2 is coming and I won’t be able to take him to the day care at the gym until he’s older, I’m going to be resigned to night time runs. It’s either 5 am or 7 pm…and I usually prefer 7 pm. And I always, always feel better after even if it feels annoying to go so late.

    Does your gym have a day care? I was wondering when you were going to use it for Henry?

    • Caitlin September 24, 2012, 1:38 pm

      They do have a daycare but I don’t think I’m going to use it anytime soon. I’m scared to leave him!

  • Hillary September 24, 2012, 2:09 pm

    I haven’t seen this e-card yet, but I could’ve written it myself. I swear, at least 2/3 of my weekly workouts fall under this category. Especially after a bad day at work, a run calms me down better than even a glass of wine or a nap. The repetition, the speed, the alone time—ideal for letting out my aggression and frustration!

  • Bron September 24, 2012, 2:48 pm

    I love running to de-stress! But I am 26 weeks now and starting to find that running is really uncomfortable on my bladder… 🙁 I can’t wait to run and race again. I am even having running dreams at night…..maybe I should give it another go tonight after work 😉

  • Susanna September 24, 2012, 2:55 pm

    I has cheap headlamps, and I eventually spent the $ on a good headlamp. The difference is significant! This is what I run with now:
    http://www.petzl.com/us/outdoor/headlamp/performance/myo-rxp

  • Jameil September 24, 2012, 4:00 pm

    LOL My husband has definitely told me to go for a run during a “discussion”! More than once! Hilarious! And it works! 🙂

  • Ellen @ Wannabe Health Nut September 24, 2012, 5:21 pm

    I always feel better after a run! Always. My boyfriend has never told me to go on a run mid-argument, but he has said, “Would ice cream make you feel better?” He doesn’t usually encourage my emotional eating tendencies, but sometimes ice cream is the ONLY thing that will help pull me out a funk. That and watching Breaking Bad. 🙂

  • luv what you do September 24, 2012, 5:52 pm

    LOL! Loving that comic. I may be sharing it this week. I definitely know that feeling although it usually happens to me at work when the most I can hope for is a walk around the block to catch up on vitamin D and fresh air : ) I did see some headlamps at LLBean yesterday…

  • Sam @ Better With Sprinkles September 24, 2012, 6:30 pm

    If I’m in a bad mood when I head out for a run, I always end up feeling better afterwards! Nothing like a good endorphin high. 😀

  • Shannon September 25, 2012, 7:11 am

    Oh, I know the feeling. Believe me. Even with kids 6 and 8 (read: no longer sleep training!), there are many days I need to just get out there and run! 🙂 But the real reason for this comment: have you heard of/tried Knuckle Lights? I did a review of them on Mama in Wonderland last year. I love them. You use them instead of a headlamp. They work great and are super handy. (no pun intended.) Check them out!

  • Steph @ A Life without Ice Cream September 25, 2012, 7:25 am

    LOL! Cute post!

    Well, I’m not married so I can’t speak for a spouse… but many times when I had a roommate in undergrad she would suggest ever-so-delicately that I should go workout. Evidently I’m much more pleasant to be around 😛 so I anticipate any future spouse will be saying this!

  • Marissa C September 25, 2012, 10:26 am

    I’m too scared to run in the dark, even in my nice, safe burb. Maybe I shouldn’t be?

  • melissa l September 26, 2012, 9:38 am

    What about reflective clothing? I am looking for a vest but not the bright yellow ones – any ideas?!

Previous post:

Next post:

Healthy Tipping Point