There’s something that happens every time I run, and it still surprises me. I could start off frustrated, distracted, overwhelmed—doesn’t matter. The moment my feet hit the pavement, it’s like my mind begins to unravel, in the best way. The thoughts don’t disappear, but they loosen their grip. And by the time I’m done, I feel lighter, clearer. Not always with answers, but always with a sense of calm. Running has become my reset button—a way to reconnect with myself, no matter where I started.

That’s what led me to start thinking about intentional miles—not just running for fitness or pace, but running as a practice of tuning out the noise and tuning back into something deeper. Because these days, with all the external voices shouting for attention—social media, opinions, comparisons, even our own inner critic—it’s getting harder to hear the one voice that actually matters: our own.

In our hyper-connected world, we’re bombarded with messages—from social media, peers, and even our own internal dialogues. These voices, often uninvited, can cloud our judgment and disconnect us from our true selves. Running, for many, becomes a sanctuary—a way to disconnect from external noise and reconnect with our inner voice.

Distinguishing the Inner Critic from Intuition

I’ve noticed there’s a sneaky little voice that loves to chime in whenever I’m about to try something new or take a risk. You probably know it too—it’s the one that says, “Are you sure you can do this?” or “What if you mess up?” That’s the inner critic, and it’s a master of disguise. It pretends it’s just trying to protect us, but really, it’s stuck in the past, recycling fears and doubts that don’t really serve us anymore.

On the other hand, there’s intuition. It feels completely different—calmer, more spacious, and usually doesn’t say much at all. It’s more like a quiet knowing, a gentle nudge in the right direction. The trick is telling them apart. For me, it often comes down to how my body feels. If I’m tense, anxious, or second-guessing myself, that’s usually the inner critic in action. But if I feel more open and at ease, even if I don’t have all the answers, I know it’s my intuition speaking up.

The Power of the Mind-Body Connection

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from running—and honestly, from life—is that what’s going on in our heads shows up in our bodies, and vice versa. Stress isn’t just a mental thing; it lives in our shoulders, our necks, and our gut. That’s why moving my body—whether it’s running, doing yoga, or just taking a few deep breaths—can be such a game-changer.

Breathwork, for example, has been a lifesaver for me. It’s like a secret weapon against stress and overwhelm. Just a few minutes of focusing on my breath, and everything starts to slow down. My mind clears, and I can actually feel the tension melting away. It’s a simple practice, but it helps me reconnect with the calm and steady part of myself that knows what I need.

Embracing Stillness Amidst Movement

Although running is a powerful way to clear my head, I’ve found that adding a few quiet moments afterward can make it even more meaningful. Sometimes that’s just sitting on a bench for a few minutes, letting my breath slow down. Other times it’s journaling about whatever thoughts came up on the run, or simply lying in the grass, staring at the sky.

These little pockets of stillness—especially after the movement—help me make sense of what’s going on inside. They’re like an invitation to listen more closely to that quiet voice within. And honestly, that’s where the real magic happens.

Practical Steps to Reconnect

• Mindful Running: Focus on your breath, the rhythm of your steps, and the sensations in your body. Let go of distractions and be present.
• Post-Run Reflection: After your run, take a few minutes to sit quietly. Notice any thoughts or feelings that emerge. Journaling can be a helpful tool here.
• Body Scans Regularly check in with your body. Notice areas of tension or discomfort and explore what emotions might be associated with them.
• Limit External Noise: Designate times to disconnect from digital devices and social media. Create space for your inner voice to emerge.
• Seek Support: Engaging with therapists or joining support groups can provide additional tools and perspectives to navigate internal dialogues.

By intentionally integrating these practices, you can cultivate a deeper connection with your intuition, navigate life’s challenges with clarity, and foster a harmonious relationship between your mind and body.

I’d love to hear about your running experiences—let’s share our stories, celebrate our victories, and support each other through the highs and lows of this incredible journey!

With love and care, Francis.