Running To Clear My Mind

June 15th, 2012 by Pete

I’ve discussed many of the physical items that I’m trying to get rid of or minimize in my life. Clearly, there are almost endless possibilities in that area, especially when you consider how our society has evolved. That being said, I think that having a clear mind can have at least as many benefits as having little stuff. But in this world where we are always one phone call, one quick glance on our smartphone away from connecting to loved ones, to our unfinished project at work or teamwork with our fellow classmates.

In this connected and wired world, it’s more difficult than ever to clear our minds, to completely disconnect.

How To Clear Your Mind

I personally think that spending time alone, without a phone or laptop can work well, as can practicing meditation for example. Personally though, I’m a fan of doing sports, especially running. It’s such a mind liberation, especially when I can go running outside, think about whatever is around me, about music that I’m listening to, etc. There’s nothing quite like it. It also doesn’t hurt that it helps to stay in shape and keep off the extra pounds.

Over the last few years, I’ve became a huge believer in running and I personally always use the Nike+ application to track my progress from run to run, month to month and even compare the current year with the last one. I guess we’re all different but I personally feel like seeing progress is one of my top motivations when running…

There are also physical reasons why running helps to clear the mind as do most other sports. Swimming is also a way to completely empty your mind…

I would love to hear, how do you clear your mind?

Posted in Minimalism | 5 comments

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  • Carlos Castro

    I ‘ve always run. But still while running would be able to have disturbing thoughts. Recently started with tennis and found that without BEING TRULLY PRESENT it is impossible to keep a decent play. You HAVE TO BE THERE LOOKING AT THE BALL. Otherwise you would miss it!

  • Corinnanairn

    Yes, totally sports.  Running, interval training with bodyrocking (www.bodyrock.tv), swimming, surfing, weights, hiking… all this stuff is great.

  • Ali

    I enjoy dancing, as exercise and a way to express myself artistically. Otherwise, I clear my mind when I am on the daily commute to and from work on the bus, as well as the walk home. It helps that I live in such a beautiful place surrounded by nature, the ocean and scenic views of the mountains.

  • Jules McMurray

    I practice yoga and swim on a weekly basis. Being in the pool where a phone is not able to be is so refreshing.

  • Alyssa

    Yoga always does it for me. I can have 18 things buzzing in my mind, but about 10 minutes into a class, it’s quiet and empty. Swimming does that for me, too.

    I’m not a good runner, but I’m trying to be one.