My physical wellness is strongly entwined with my emotional wellness. As Elle Woods said, “Exercise gives you endorphins, endorphins make you happy, and happy people just don’t shoot their husbands.” Not only does running make me happy, I also love to run with my husband. He’s safe, don’t worry!

In all seriousness, I find joy, peace, and release in running. Being outside and moving is my happy place. Running is special because it only requires me and is often the only time I am by myself. A pair of shoes and a good sports bra help, but all I need is me. No matter where I travel to in the country for work, or travel to around the world, I can go for a run.

Kristin's January Apple Watch Fitness Rings

Kristin’s January Apple Watch Fitness Rings

My feet have carried me through the Rocky Mountains, along the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, down the Champs Elysees, through Kensington Park, around the monuments at sunrise in Washington, DC, and round and round my regular 3-mile loop on Beaucatcher Mountain here in my neighborhood.

During the pandemic, I struggled to take the time to care for my physical health, and my emotional health paid too. Finally, on New Year’s Eve, I decided that I could leave 2020 behind and choose to take the time to care for my physical wellness. I committed to exercising 30 minutes a day. My goal is to close my Apple Activity Rings (Stand, Move, Exercise) every day. So far, I have achieved my goal! A lot of that time has been spent on my stationary bike in the basement before the sun rises or during a webinar at work. But occasionally, I get a break in the day or the sun is out on the weekend, and I make it outside for the coveted run.

Just me and my shoes.

Reese Witherspoon Endorphins GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY