Following Healthy

What is the best way of knowing you are alive? What if you were just living in a dream? Remember when they say,"Pinch me, am I dreaming?" well, I have always tried to figure out why I like to run the 800. For some strange reason, whenever asked what event I run and I respond with, "the 800!" with a happy smile on my face (always expecting the same sad answer "Why??") and they look at me like I am crazy. I am here to explain myself, and explain why you should like running too.. or exercising.  You should really think about it: When you workout, it's painful. You are essentially tearing down your muscles (that doesn't sound fun at all) but in the end, they are rebuilt! They are stronger, more durable and you look better too! Maybe you do it for the results, but when you are pushing yourself to the limits, there is something that you can enjoy in those moments. Y ou feel alive.  You are doing something to better yourself. You are taking some

Running. Some people run to be fit or to "fit" into their old jeans. I personally have realized my love for long runs and love it when I get to catch the sunset in the Boise Foothills and love to find new and cool places. It is relaxing. Some people run to feel that "energy" or the runner's high that kicks in (endorphins). It's kind of like a magic trick. Ready for some science? Endorphins are chemicals that are released when you exercise and act on your brain receptors, reducing its perception of pain. Sometimes, when I am really tired, I think I am going very slow and look down at my watch and realize I am going faster than I normally go.. probably the endorphins kicking in! In fact, endorphins "trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine," (WebMD, 2013).  Crazy to think of all the little things in your body that work so hard to keep you happy and feeling good!  With tomorrow being my last indoor track meet, I