Hello friends!

I’m sure by now you all know how much I love running. It’s been an intricate part of my life and overall wellness. It’s my moving meditation, my therapy, my friend that never lets me down — unless, of course, I’ve tweaked an old injury, then I just ache for the fresh air and bliss that accompanies chasing the rush.

I’m mostly a solo runner. When running roads, music creates my rhythm. Some days I feel I like I can go forever, others are hindered by a cluttered mind. I love trail running for truly clearing away that clutter. It forces you to focus and be present. Our lives are far too busy and overscheduled. Doing something that requires all of your mental capacity is a great way to just let it all go!

I’ve been out running lately, trying desperately to release stress and taken hard falls. Those darn roots and rocks are tricky to navigate sometimes and incredibly symbolic, indicating my ‘hamster wheel’ has taken up too much space in my world. I remember lying in the dirt for a second or two after an embarrassing stumble all by myself. It cleared the fog rather abruptly, forcing me to truly see that if my career stresses had clouded my moment of ‘me’ time, I really needed to assess where I was, how I got there and why I felt stuck.  

Needless to say, I dusted myself off and just kept moving, finding the answers I knew were there, but had ignored until that fall. It is pivotal to hear the messages, and trust the path. Sometimes we just need a proverbial — or in my case literal — stumble to open our eyes.

The Terry Fox run was this past weekend (again, you all know how this young man changed my future). I was going to run alone like I usually do, but this amazing group of like-minded people included me. Their non-judgmental approach to movement and no-one-gets-left-behind philosophy is sprinkled with genuine kindness. All abilities are welcome, from people who have never ran at all to elite ultra athletes. There is a group for everyone.

I was moved when the large circle stood waiting for the pep talk. We were asked, “What is this club all about?”  Single words were shouted out: inclusiveness, community, safety, sweat, joy, happiness, goals and, of course, movement.

The gracious, humble and inspiring person in the middle of this circle was Jo Berry. It’s almost impossible to live in Kamloops and not have heard her name. She IS Boogie the Bridge, but she won’t take credit for its success. She truly believes in community spirit and giving back with an honest and open heart. Her smile is contagious, her sincerity makes you want to be a better a person. She’s spearheaded RunClub, Get Happy Events and so much more.  

Everyone should lace up and join a club like this — even me. That run yesterday reminded me that sometimes what I’m lacking in my wellness journey is feeling connected, being part of a community. I had forgotten how important it is. I realized after that I rob myself of that gift because I have the mindset that doing it alone is somehow more triumphant.

Jo Berry and Dina McLeod

As we were about to set out on our Terry Fox Run — which RunClub has never missed by the way — I was excited to be there, not just for the Canadian hero we were paying tribute to, but to share the experience with others and tell our stories.

Coaches are there to lead groups on five- to 12-kilometre runs, there to encourage, assist and guide you through the route. It’s a place for people to find their wings, to feel safe enough to try, to believe that they really can do it.

If you’ve ever wanted to become a runner (and anyone can) this is a perfect place to start. You’ll surprise yourself at what you can accomplish when given the right tools to do so. All you need: running shoes, water and a heart that’s longing for something more!

Wellness is a precious gem we give ourselves. Like Jo says: Movement is change. So just move, friends. Life is waiting, live it now!