Elaine began running as a college student and now runs 3 - 4 miles three times a week in her native North Carolina. Entering races no longer attracts her; it is the discipline of running Elaine enjoys. I asked Elaine how she motivates herself to go for a run.
"I put my clothes on; honestly, it takes a lot of mental work for me to lace up my shoes these days, especially since it's so hot and the kids are home for the summer. I adore time by myself, so that benefit alone is enough to motivate me!"
Elaine added she enjoys the adrenaline rush that comes with a run and always feels so much better "...like I've actually done something good for my soul, not just my body."
What do you think about when you run?
"I listen to my Christian music and do a lot of thinking and praying. I find great inspiration for my blog posts while pacing around. There is great freedom to think and breathe and feel the pulse of heaven, even as I feel the pusle of my heartbeat rising while running."
"In my recent book release, I have an entire section dedicated to the 'insight' I've gleaned while 'on the road' out running."
In answer to how running is beneficial in her role as wife and mom, Elaine responded that running is a huge stress reducer.
"I feel better about my body, thus affecting the way I look at myself. I also have more patience with my 'dailyness' after a good workout."
Elaine also adds weights to her fitness routine and utilizes Leslie Sansone's walking program, as well.
Her #1 tip for a mom who wants to start running:
"Find a friend to run with; if not, load up the Ipod with great music, and ALWAYS CARRY YOUR PEPPER SPRAY!"
To order Elaine's book or see a trailer for Peace for the Journey: In the Pleasure of His Company, go here.
12 comments:
So glad you featured Elaine as a running mom. I've enjoyed getting to know her through her blog and also her book. She's great!
Elaine is fantastic.
Thanks for this, Melanie. You made me sound me better than originally billed. I'll try and post a link sometime tonight or tomorrow. I actually took my first run in my new neighborhood yesterday. Very hot, but very fulfilling.
Keep to it, sister, keep the road. We aren't home yet.
peace~elaine
I love Elaine and what a great interview :) What an inspiration you both are!
As I was working out this morning I was thinking about all you shared when you first starting running ~ I LOVED running and would agree with all that Elaine shared! It is exhilarating for sure! I hope to get back into it
Have a blessed weekend my dear friend
Elaine is so sweet and her running has inspired me. Great interview!
Elaine,
Why pepper spray? Is it for dogs? I hope you don't mean an attacker, because it's my biggest fear. Wouldn't Satan love to use that to keep me from running??
Dogs... it really does work; don't let your fear keep you from running or walking. Just be well-armed for dogs. Most are harmless, but my friend was recently attacked and could have used a heavy dose of this! Check your state laws to make sure it's legal. The kind I used is cleared in NC and was ordered from a police supply company online.
peace~elaine
I love this site.. so glad I came across it via Peace for the Journey!! woohoo!!
I love Leslie Sansone's walking fitness! I lost 10 lbs doing her fitness walking. Of course, when I quit walking I gained it all back, but like most anything, you have to be dedicated to it.
Hmmmm...friend Elaine has a way of saying something that I need to hear...and giving me a sisterly nudge in the process! ;-) I guess if she can run 3-4 miles in this scorching heat, I can certainly WALK my 2 miles!
I have not been able to run for a few years (due to a previous ankle fracture) but I have recently begged off walking since this oppressive heat began. I guess it's time to hit the pavement!
Thanks for the push, Elaine, and thank you, Melanie, for setting up this guest post with my sweet friend.
Blessings...
Love Elaine and Leslie Sansone too! Great post and blessings to you Melanie and your family!
Elaine is one of my favorite runners :)
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