Early morning runs are more enjoyable in the spring than winter. Although this morning when I went out on my run, it was definitely chilly. I was barefoot as I have been easing into barefoot running in the last year or so. My toes instantly turned numb and cold. Just as they started warming up thanks to increased circulation from my huffing and puffing, I hit the wet grass at the middle school, and they froze again only to slowly thaw out little by little as my body heated up. Usually it is warmer on the wet pavement than in the soggy grass when the temperature is in the 40s (F/5-10C), so I was not surprised. The advantage of running in the grass is obvious; it is softer and a more natural surface—less harsh on the feet. However, it can also be more difficult and unpredictable because I can’t see all objects like sticks and stones potentially hiding beneath the blades of grass.
A couple of trees in full bloom provided a bit of beautiful magic as well this morning like a hidden petal world. Gorgeous views aside, my favorite part of barefoot running is splashing in puddles and leaping through mud.
After rainfall the middle school offers opportunities for both. I love the feeling of mud oozing between my toes even when it is cold outside. It feels grounded and very real. I am actually touching the earth with a bare part of my body. My naked feet root me and connect me to something large and ancient. So at 6A.M. as the wind whispered sounds of promise and renewal in tunnels of tree blossoms around me, the earth hummed songs of solace to my toes. Benefited both sole and soul. Priceless way to begin the day.
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