How does Running Helps Your Faith Stronger?

"Churches are good for prayer, but so are garages and cars and mountains and showers and dance floors" - Anne Lamott

Running is considered a sport  which is believed to primarily develop the physical aspect of a person - agility, stamina, toned bod and endurance. Secondly, it also covers the mental aspect - alertness, reduces stress and improved mood. These are the few advances that this sport offers, as most of the articles about running claims. Few have mentioned about what running could contribute in the spiritual aspect.

Runner as I am, and a catholic too, I do believe that this sport, without us knowing, is also a catalyst in our spiritual formation.

Talked to one of the seasoned ultra runners on what she did to surpass the race ( she joined the 210 km run in Cebu ) - she said "I prayed hard to God for strength and endurance to finish the race - it's not about reaching the finish line first, for it's the ultimate test of endurance and will power, so I asked for it, the spiritual tools that would cover me to cross that line." It was a bold and humble answer. Yes, you trained hard to prepare for the race physically. The mind and body will combat as the race progresses, but the "spiritual side" will help you get through.

The uphill road

           BEFORE:

"While on training, every day before a runner hustles, he lifts his spirit above for  guidance, protection and strength. He may not say a word, but as he stretches, he silently mumbles a prayer. He is looking forward and preparing hard for the race, though he conditions his body and health, he doesn't forget his spirit as well."

          DURING & AFTER the race:

"Hours and hours, that will lead to days of running, especially the ultra runners - 160 km, 210 km or 500km, most likely physical and mental fatigue is setting in. Exhaustion is real. These are the times that most runners are on their lowest point - to move forward, decide whether  to make it through or go for DNF (Did not finish).  But these are the times also that they "talk-to-God". That is when they find 'company' amidst the isolation on the road while trudging the route day and night. This is how their spirits are lifted amidst the debility - it may sound strange but there is that unexplainable force that keeps someone going, on and on and on. When reaching the finish line, you will hear "Yes, Thank you Lord!" - If you have witnessed an ultramarathon or full marathon, this is a very common line from the runners. They may not be loud in  expressing their faith, but those lines are the result of your heart and  mind's joy. It overflows and readily comes out naturally.

       

As the quote said, you can pray wherever you are - garages and cars - even on the road. While doing the morning, afternoon or evening run, more so if you're running a full marathon or ultramarathon. It's not just about the display of one's prowess or might, it is but a holistic effort to perform what you are good at - and that is running. You do your passion but you maintain that deeper connection with a divine being that makes you do more - push your limit to its limit if there is any. 

No matter what religion you belong, I know you do mutter an orison in silence for divine intervention. Regardless of who you call, this is just a proof that "running" brings you closer to God keeps you in touch with your faith.

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     This picture was from my saturday run 19 October 2019 - I was awed with the wild beauty of the tiny pink flowers along the road, vine as it is, it hugged the metal road fence. Nobody notices it or might think of it as a wild grass or a mess that needs to be cut off to clear the road fence. I tell you, it was a work of art. You just need to take a closer look to appreciate its beauty.