Run, no thanks…but

I'm not a big fan of running. However, in the past I have run several 5 km, 10 km, half marathons and I occasionally go out, like a marmot in spring, for a little 25-minute stroll in the neighborhood. In fact, I'm a hard runner to please...the weather has to be nice, I have to be comfortable, I have to have the best possible playlist on my iPod and ideally I have to be in pretty good shape to be able to beat my last time or distance. exit. It’s simple when I run, I get bored… not to say, I get bored. As someone else would say, I have no fun.

But why then are you talking about racing? You've seen the film "Sara loves running" and this running is her escape...and that's why. Even though I'm not a runner when I run, most runners have the talent to enjoy the present moment when they put on their running shoe. It doesn't require upbeat Pitbull music or blazing Rock & Roll on their iPod to keep you going for 30, 40 or 60 minutes. Many of you have a talent for running. You are able to run for the sake of running. Breathe the fresh air, look at the landscape, clear your mind of everyday life and just run without demands or constraints. For me, this effect lasts about 3 minutes...the rest of the time, I think too much, I focus on my rhythm...I sing...I remember to breathe...in fact I don't relax for a second. But I understand this beneficial effect of running very well; because I still manage to experience it in the practice of other sports.

So, even if I don't like it, I strongly invite you to try it. You may find in running (or brisk walking) all the benefits for the body, but above all how your mind can benefit from this energizing mental break. Running is one of the most accessible sports...put on your sneakers...open the door and voilà! It’s an easy way to recharge your mind and feel better.

And if, like me, racing is not your “cup of tea” to borrow the English expression; and try other activities that will give you the same mental benefits of freedom. I challenge you, we often do sport for the health of the body, but think about sport to benefit your mind and the rest will follow.

What sporting activity gives you mental health?