Tooth And Nail
Here's my version of the stoic principle of focusing on what can be controlled and letting go of what cannot be controlled:
Years ago, I went jogging 3 hours or more a week. I would get a runner's high from these jogs. Life was really good during this time. Then, however, I started feeling awful after the jogs, and my heart started flip-flopping like I was going to die. This made me very upset. I kept saying, "Why am I being punished for doing the right thing?"
Recently though, I decided to go on walks for an hour or more a day, most days of the week. I feel invigorated with a 'walker's high' from these walks. It's fantastic!
The above is an example of finding ways around something beyond my control. "If I can't do this, what can I do?"
Suppose it rains most of the time. Then I would go on walks with a an umbrella or raincoat. Suppose I had a leg injury. Then I would go on walks with a cane. Suppose I didn't even have legs. Then I would use a wheelchair.
I make damn sure if something's beyond my control. I do anything I possibly can to find ways around it, tooth and nail. If all possible options have been exhausted and I still can't change it, then, and only then, do I let it go.
Running puts more strain and stress on the body. I do only walking and it's fantastic!!!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely, running raises cortisol and causes inflammation, and I would get strong heartburn from it too. Walking is where it's at! Glad that you are having success with this too! 👍
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