Travis ThompsonEl Prado, New Mexico
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What moves you? Through the act of running, I am moved to joy. I have found running is the best way for me to connect with my physical self, my emotional state, and the world around me. On a run, I am continually brought to the present; with each rock on the trail, each stride, a car or person that passes, a view, a sidewalk, each gust of wind, and each breath. The sense of wonder and discovery in these moments moves me to run each day, whether I am exploring a new trail or treading the same familiar path.
How does running inspire you to give back? When I began running, I was two years sober, attending therapy, but still struggling with depression and a low sense of self worth. I was inspired by another individual I met who was older and had worked through many of the same struggles and ran. He ran every day and raced long distances, and this inspired me immensely. Now, three years later, my running practice has helped me develop the strength and self that I needed. I found community in the endurance running culture, and I am moved to elevate that community with group runs and running stories. Running contains the practices that teach us how to overcome challenges. We come away from those trials more personally powerful and stronger as a community when we share the experiences. I want to grow wellness in the community by creating or supporting local group runs. By sharing stories of trail runs, I can provide exposure to the landscapes we are stewards for and bring awareness to organizations that help protect them. |
