a Soul's Prescription

On a recent run just about halfway through, I was guided by a gentle nudge and a voice asking me to slow my pace down to a walk. "Just relax Jackie and take it all in." "Do what???" I thought.

For the most part, I'm a full steam ahead kind of girl with my running. Just like the little engine that could. And with the addition of my motivation playlist blaring in my ears, there are times where I think I could about miss a natural disaster coming towards me. This day was not supposed to be any different!

At first I tried a little bartering, slowing down my run to a brisk power walk. I felt my body answer back by slowing down my stride even more. "Nope. Not good enough." I caught myself trying to ignore it, but there were other plans for me that day. Reluctantly, I caved in. And BOY am I glad I did. It did not take any time at all for me to see why. I miss so much when I'm in my "runner's frame of mind."

​As I slowed down my pace, my mind followed. I was able to take in all of nature's sights and sounds that were prepared for me that day. In the distance I could hear the variety of the calls of nearby birds, the rustling sound of the branches as the wind brushed the tops of the trees and the animals scampering through the woods. Each adding their own bit of harmony to the earth's grandest of overtures.

There were new discoveries found around every bend, as beams of light made their way through the trees showcasing nature's surprise gifts. I was amazed at the changes in the scenery since my last walk with new plants and flowers springing up all around, adding a new color palette to the rich green earth below.

As I made my way up the hill, the sunlight beaming through the trees suddenly began to find its way to me producing a warmth and glow that could be felt throughout my entire body. My spirit was overcome by a mesmerizing trance of peace and oneness with all.
As I finished my route and reached the car, I looked back at the trail. "Just what the doctor ordered. I do not believe he could've written me a better prescription. And there are unlimited refills!!"

In my life, I must remember that the mind, body and spirit need a healthy balance of knowing when to press on but also when to slow down, relax and enjoy the magic of the world that has been meticulously created. I need to listen when my inner voice/spirit calls and asks me to quieten my busy task oriented mind. For the messages sent are powerful and heart warming.
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As the change of the season is here, take some time to STOP, catch your breath and slow down from the "programmed" pace. Autumn's beauty and treasures are bountiful and her harvest abundant!