Run Aligned a Chi Running Podcast.

In this episode, we explore a powerful mindset shift inspired by a snooze button dilemma that's applicable far beyond running. Discover the philosophy of choosing self-compassion over self-criticism, measuring progress by what you've done, and embracing the gains in life. We introduce the Gap and the Gain concept, focusing on what you did rather than an ideal to positively impact your future results.

Run well, be well.

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If you enjoyed this episode remember to leave a 5 star review here

In this episode, we're diving deep into the fusion of running and mental health therapy with a special guest, Sarah Strong. A mental health therapist and accomplished ultra runner, Sarah brings a unique perspective to the conversation. She aligns closely with my belief in self-compassion and embracing the joy of running.

Sarah underscores the potent role running plays in bolstering mental wellness. The act of running triggers the release of endorphins, amplifies serotonin and dopamine levels, and even contributes to our physical health. Moreover, running serves as a canvas for processing complex emotions, aligning our mind and body, cultivating self-awareness, and honing stress management skills. Just as therapy challenges us to overcome mental barriers, running empowers us to believe in ourselves and realize our potential.

However, it's crucial to discern that while running offers immense benefits for mental well-being, it's not a substitute for therapy. Sarah emphasizes this point, highlighting that therapy equips us with invaluable tools and guides us in reshaping our thought patterns. While running has numerous advantages, it can also amplify mental health challenges if approached inattentively. The release of stress hormones during running can be beneficial with proper rest, but adding stress to an already demanding situation can have counterproductive effects on mental health.

Recognizing signs of burnout, stress, or emotional distress is pivotal. If you find yourself associating relaxation solely with exercise or experiencing negative emotions when skipping a workout, these signals might suggest the need for guidance from a mental health therapist.

During our conversation, Sarah unveils the micro tools she shares with her clients to empower them to excel in races. Tune in to uncover these strategies that blend mental and physical wellness, setting the stage for success on your running journey.

Top Takeaways from this episode:

Connect with Sarah:

How to connect with Stine:”

Running Aligned Body and Mind 2024 Waitlist.

Today, in our fourth Mindful Running episode, we explore the joy of setting meaningful running goals and the impact it can have on our journey.

Remember, "Running makes us happy, but happiness makes us better runners." Share this episode, and leave a 5-star review to spread the running joy! 🏃‍♀️🌟

Run well, be well.

Links:

Articles used:

https://inside.ewu.edu/calelearning/psychological-skills/goal-setting/

https://medium.com/runners-life/your-running-goals-should-be-primarily-process-goals-baf93ccccfa7

Taming the Inner Critic: Empowering Your Mindset for Positive Running

On the days you’re tempted to skip a workout, what motivates you to run anyway?

Are you thinking, “A missed run equals weight gain!” or, “I’m not going to be a real runner if I don’t follow through on my training.” or “I’ll only improve if I run every day, so I have to run today, no matter what.”

Chasing external outcomes isn’t going to make you a better and more committed runner. In fact, it’ll only perpetuate the negative feelings you already have, and even block you from appreciating your accomplishments when you do achieve them!

This is episode 3 in Stine’s new series, Mindful Running and How to Cultivate Presence and Joy in Every Step. Today, she addresses how your mindset shapes your running journey and peels back the layers of motivation, self-talk and intention that influence your steps, so you can make positive change.

Top Takeaways:

Now, when your negative thought habits threaten to take over, you’ll have the tools you need to shift your thinking into joyful motivation.

Run well, be well.

Links:

Connect with Stine on Instagram

In Episode 2 of the series, Mindful Running and how to Cultivate Presence and Joy in Every Step, Stine goes over the principles of good form, tips for testing your form and improving it + how proper running form helps you run with joy.

This episode was sparked by an inspiring interview by Danny Dreyer, the founder of Chi Running and The Energy Blueprint. Danny has been a guiding light for the last 20 years by educating runners worldwide on the art of good running, and his message focuses primarily on the benefits of mindful movement.

His motto is, “Don’t try to build big muscles to go faster, get rid of what’s slowing you down.”

You’ll learn:

When you run mindfully and in alignment, running with joy becomes your new reality. Try these tips on your next run and experience mindful joy in every stride!

Links:

“It’s not the distance you must conquer in running. It’s yourself.”

-Michael D’Aurelio

How do you feel about your runs?

If your answer is “Meh” or “Frustrated”, this episode will show you what you can do about that (and it’s probably not what you think!).

Today’s episode is the first in a 4-part series called, Mindful Running and How to Cultivate Presence and Joy in Every Step. If you’re going to be out there running on the regular, it pays to enjoy your workouts! This series will cover your mental environment and mindset, practical tips for optimizing your running form, and enhance your mind-body connection, for better results and joyful running.

In this episode, Stine shares how a coaching client was limiting her running potential, how you could be too, and her 4 step framework to help you address your thoughts, change your behavior, and begin to experience joy in every step of your run.

You’ll learn how to:

If the idea of finding joy in your workout seems a little too good to be true (or flat-out impossible), you’ll want to hear what Stine has to say about joy and running. You just might change your mind!

Links

Download Stine new private podcast teaching you how to overcome negative self-talk:

Request Learn to Love Your Runs a 3 step guide that will help you connect with your runs outside of the standard running metrics.

In this episode, we welcome back Melody Bateman, a runner, ultra runner, and run coach, who shares insights on zone 2 training and 80/20 running. Melody debunks the misconception that "harder is better" and highlights the benefits of zone 2 training for overall health and fitness.

In the second part, we explore the art of 80/20 running, where Melody explains the balance between easy and hard workouts. Surprisingly, starting with a training split like 90/10 or 95/5 can be more effective for building a solid foundation. We also hear Stine's personal experience with Melody's coaching and how the 80/20 approach transformed her training journey.

Tune in to unravel the science behind these training methods and optimize your own fitness routine.

Top Takeaways from this episode:

You can listen to our previous interview (episode 102) here.

Connect with Melody:

FEATURED ON THIS EPISODE:

How to connect with Stine:”

In part two of my interview with nutrition coach Kellie Largay, we continue our exploration of nutrition from a mindful perspective. Listen in as we discuss topics such as *debunking common misconceptions among runners*, *understanding the difference between weight loss goals and body composition goals*, and *discovering strategies for balancing nourishment and indulgences*. Don't miss out on this valuable discussion on *developing a sustainable nutrition plan as a runner*.

FEATURED ON THIS EPISODE:

Follow Kellie on Instragram

Kellie’s website

HOW TO CONNECT WITH STINE

Connect inside Running Aligned Body and Mind Facebook community

Ready to get off the struggle bus and ditch the negative self-talk? Sign up for the private podcast. 

Coaching with Stine

Email Stine

In this special bonus episode of My Runner's Mind podcast, we dive into the extraordinary benefits of participating in a mindful running retreat. Join me as I share the remarkable stories of women who have attended Running Aligned Body and Mind retreats, and discover the profound impact these immersive experiences have had on their running journeys. From embracing self-compassion to unlocking inner strength, these retreats offer a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded women and cultivate a deep mind-body connection. Are you ready to take your running to new heights? Don't miss out on our upcoming August retreat—only 2 spots left! Visit the link in the show notes to secure your spot and embark on a life-changing journey with us.

How to connect with Stine:

Today and next week, I'll be sharing an interview I conducted with nutrition coach Kellie Largay. Many of you may recognize Kellie from the Running Aligned Body and Mind Facebook community. Given my recent discussions about my personal struggles with body image and my newfound commitment to a formal nutrition plan and calorie tracking (refer to episodes 105 and 108), I couldn't be more excited to have Kellie join me. We dive deep into the world of nutrition, exploring it from a mindful perspective and discovering how we can nourish our bodies and minds as runners. Throughout this two-part interview, we address various topics such as debunking common misconceptions among runners, differentiating between weight loss goals and body composition goals, and understanding their potentially counterproductive effects. We also delve into strategies for striking a balance between nourishment and indulgence, managing stress and emotional eating, and developing a sustainable nutrition plan tailored specifically for runners. Join me for this insightful 2 part conversation with Kellie Largay!

FEATURED ON THIS EPISODE:

Follow Kellie on Instragram

Kellie’s website

HOW TO CONNECT WITH STINE

Connect inside Running Aligned Body and Mind Facebook community

Ready to get off the struggle bus and ditch the negative self-talk? Sign up for the private podcast. 

Coaching with Stine

Email Stine