How Running A Marathon Became Self-Care
On January 5, I announced that I was running the London Marathon on April 23. No one knew I would run a marathon, including myself, until about two days prior. Yes, it was an impulsive decision and somewhat of a bold move for me, given the timeline and my level of running expertise. But those who know me know that I like a challenge and follow my intuition on what is best for me at any given time. I have decided to share some of the questions that I am receiving and shine some light on the method to my madness.
TCS London Marathon 2023
What made you decide to run a marathon in April 2023?
First and foremost, I am running for my physical, emotional, and mental health. It may seem like an odd choice for self-care, but I know that it will help improve my overall health and that I will also see results quickly. I was feeling unhealthy and needed to turn things around.
You seem relatively healthy and happy. What’s the drive?
Yes, I do exercise regularly for the most part and eat relatively healthily. Consistently eating well continues to be a struggle for me as I have a longstanding love affair with sugar and carbs. But in particular, the holiday season in Alexandria was an exciting one marked by tons of events, celebrations, and good times. I have truly loved growing into my leadership role as the Del Ray Business Association President, especially meeting new businesses and learning from other inspiring leaders and organizations. Networking events, running my events, seeing a full clinical caseload, running two businesses, and personal and family obligations creates a somewhat burnt-out Lauren. Burn-out is not typically a significant problem as I have a high stress threshold. I know how to bring myself back into balance when needed.
However, I did not anticipate experiencing a traumatic incident during holiday travel. It overwhelmed me into “shutdown” mode for about four days before the New Year. Even though all turned out okay (thankfully), I still experienced a delayed stress response: laying depressed on a couch, isolating, binge eating chocolate and baked goods, napping, and watching a steady stream of Netflix. Stress eating is one thing, and binge eating is another, with the latter being one of my default methods of attempting to mute pain on an unconscious level. It worked for a few days before I acknowledged that my actions made me feel worse in all aspects of mind, body, and spirit. Plus, I packed on about 12 pounds and was physically uncomfortable. I knew that something needed to change and change fast. I have too many responsibilities and people who depend on me to stay in a state of apathy. The next day, two friends randomly mentioned that their family members were running the London Marathon, and I instantly knew that was what I needed to do. I knew that I just needed to get physically moving, though no part of me wanted to do so. But every time I have ever felt depressed or overwhelmed by anxiety, the movement has helped shift the tides. More movement, better eating, and less drinking creates better overall functioning.
Why a marathon versus just eating better and exercising more regularly?
Great question. I am a huge fan and proponent of slow and incremental changes for long-lasting change. However, I do better with a goal and a plan to kick-start myself into better health routines. When training, I am more motivated to support my journey with better food, less alcohol, and more TLC of the physical body. With big challenges like a marathon or hiking the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim, I understand the importance of training because lack of preparation could cause mild to serious risks to your health during the challenge. For example, I was not well-trained for my first marathon, and I wanted to die for the last 12 miles of it and felt pretty ill because of dehydration and loss of sodium. It is amazing that I even considered running again, but I am pretty stubborn and wanted to complete one and feel good.
The first few training walks and runs were really tough, especially with extra weight, but I just said to put one foot in front of the other and just do it. Within less than one week of moving and eating better, my body responded positively. I am always so grateful at how resilient our bodies are and how much power we have to impact them positively or negatively.
Have you run a marathon before?
Yes. This will be my fifth marathon. I have run the DC Rock & Roll (2013), Chicago Marathon (2014), Paris Marathon (2015), and the New York Marathon (2017). Each one has been a challenge and a big test of mental and physical fortitude. The fastest I have completed a marathon is in five hours and 12 minutes. While this may seem super impressive to some people, I really don’t feel that way. I feel like if I can do it, many others can too. Believing that you can do something is half the battle, no matter how small or large the challenge is.
2017 NYC Marathon. Feeling well enough to drink a beer.
Have you always been a runner?
Heck no! Despite being a decent athlete in my youth, I always hated running and skipped out on laps whenever I could. In my 20s, I began to run one or two miles because it helped me lose weight, but I did not enjoy it. As I started working in a high-stress job, I began to appreciate the physiological and mental benefits of walking and running, and I started looking forward to it. About 15 years ago, my brother invited me to run the Monument 10K in Richmond (6.2 miles). I was excited, scared, and really unsure of whether or not I could finish it. After experiencing the excitement of crossing the line and finishing something I never thought possible, it was “on.” I began to think, “What else can I do?” I slowly attempted other distances, ultimately moving up to a marathon. I have enjoyed pushing myself past my limits and seeing tangible results. We are capable of much more than we think we are, but we often never find out because the fear blocks us from finding out. Running is a great metaphor for the journey of life and has served me well.
How is running a marathon of self-care?
As we all know, routine exercise and movement are really great for overall health, especially the regulation of the nervous system and increased cognitive performance. As we move into new areas of business expansion this year, I want to set myself up for success by being in the most optimal health. Devoting the time and protecting my training time from internal or external disruption will be a challenge, but a good one in the art of self-care and setting boundaries. At times, I can slide easily into serving others before myself. The good news is that training is leading to a healthier me, and the healthier I am, the better I can serve others. It is also forcing me to be more efficient with my time and energy. And lastly, physical challenges and traveling are good for my soul, and being able to do both is a great way to honor myself.
What’s different about this marathon than others before?
The main thing is that I will be running alone. Sadly, my running partner is sitting this one out. Running long distances solo is challenging, but I am embracing the opportunity and spending half of my running time listening to podcasts that will advance my training or business. I am also running for charity for the first time. Specifically, I am running for Headway East Northants, a United Kingdom nonprofit that provides services for those with brain injuries. If you are interested in supporting this cause, you can find my fundraising page here. Each person who donates $30 or more is eligible to choose a dedicated mile for themselves or someone else, which also helps make the race more meaningful for me. There will also be fun giveaways and some fundraisers too.
What advice do you have for others who might be interested in doing a physical challenge or who feel stuck?
Honestly, move. Get up, walk, and put one foot in front of the other. Set small goals and push past them each time. If you walk for five minutes, then walk for six the next day. There have been many times in my life when things were uncertain or out of my control, and I found that putting one foot in front of another brought tangible success and a sense of control. If you are not a “runner” but feel interested in challenging yourself, consider a couch to 5K program. And if running is not your thing, consider some other physical activity that seems interesting to you. Whatever it is, once you realize that you can do something you didn’t think you could, that experience and confidence will be ingrained in your memory.
To follow my running journey and the lessons learned, feel free to follow me on Instagram @drlaurenfisheralx.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog or video, including any references, links, or other knowledge resources, is for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or clinical advice, diagnosis, or medical intervention.
