KINDNESS COUNTS

Stepping up your self-kindness routine By Farah Jadran

For those who know me fairly well, you know I am a longdistance runner from way back. I’ve loved running since I was nine years old. It’s a major part of my life. For the longest time, I measured my health and wellness by how fast I could run. However, that all changed with major health events in my life including a cancer diagnosis when I was 21.

Since that time, I recovered and gained new strength. I have enjoyed running marathons and other races for the pure joy of completing them. I even accomplished an exciting 3:33 personal record for 26.2 miles.

Lately, “checking off” races or a PR does not seem as important. Perspective is brighter than ever in 2020. What’s truly important? My health, both mental and physical, is a priority. I also make sure my loved ones are focusing on their health. Your life is precious. Therefore, your health is also precious.

Because I wake up at 2:30 a.m. Monday through Friday for work, having enough energy to run long distances when I get home is not ideal. I can get in a few miles, but nothing too long or too consistent.

About a month ago, I started making new daily health goals. I aim to get ample sleep before work which is a nightly change.

I also drink at least 64 ounces of water each day. The most fun thing has been trying to walk more steps each day. As a runner, walking has never been easy for me. It’s different muscles and a different speed, of course. Taking some 10-minute walks as my workday break has been fun and so good for me. No joking around here. I feel great! Besides the hallway and parking lot jaunts, I have been meeting up with friends for weekly social distance walks at places like Thornden Park, Loop the Lake Trail and Upper Onondaga Park.

Focusing on yourself a little more is not selfish. It’s about selfkindness. If you’re not healthy and “feeling good,” how can you help others and spread kindness to them? Step up your self-kindness routine.

Kindness can change someone’s heart. It can help others realize there is a world around them and more to life than possessions and petty arguments. Kindness can be the message you wear and walk with because you choose to live life with genuine gratitude for each day you are given. Tomorrow is not promised. Why not spend today being kind and being positive? SWM