Today’s run was cold, icy, and perfect. How do I stay motivated to get outside everyday?

My first car was a graduation present from my parents, and I didn’t want it to be too extravagant, so, I specifically asked for the lowest end honda civic and the dealer delivered. It was a red honda civic hatchback with no extras. It did not have a radio or air conditioning. It would be faster for me to explain what it did have: 1 engine, 2 keys, 2 doors, and some windows.  I was a little excited that they even gave me a spare key. 

The car was awesome because it was an upgrade from my previous mode of transportation, a truck with the door held on by a bungee cord, and it got me from point a to point b. It was also a gift and I was appreciative. I was thinking about that car this morning on my run. I had stopped to watch the snowflakes and I was in awe of how the ice on the branches looked different every morning. My morning runs are a treasured gift that I appreciate having even when they’re not impressive to others, just like the car was. 

I am not as fast as I was two years ago when I completed a 5k in under 22 minutes. I have lost endurance from last year when I completed a 50 mile ultra marathon. Today I am even more appreciative of my legs than I was a year ago. Just a few months ago I couldn’t run at all and even walking was difficult.  Living with chronic diseases like MS and lupus means that my body might betray me at any time, and when it did it gave me a new, unique perspective.

Just like getting excited about having a spare key, I can not believe that I get to go for a run on a cold, icy, cloudy morning in New England. Of course it’s different when the weather is 70 degrees and sunny, but the beauty in living in New England is finding the gifts of each season.  Living with a chronic disease is very similar. I will not fight the nor’easter or be selfish with a perfect fall day.  

I have been slower, faster, healthier, and sicker than I am. I won’t yearn for the body I had or hate the person I am. I will accept me today. 

“Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the fruit, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influence of the earth.” -Henry David Thoreau

Here are my 3 tips to staying motivated to get outside and move:

1. Commit to a daily routine, that is attainable. Start with 5 minutes outside and build on that commitment.
2. Make it social. Ask a friend or family member to join you.
3. Be consistent. Consider a daily routine as important as a scheduled doctor’s appointment. You wouldn’t cancel an MRI or blood test. Don’t cancel this appointment with yourself.

If you are looking for help with a healthy lifestyle check out Empower Fitness Studios

Owner and Founder of Empower Fitness,

Nicole Kefalas