RUNNING ON SUNSHINE PHYSICAL THERAPY
Christen Thieman, PT, DPT, OCS
Welcome to RUNNING ON SUNSHINE PHYSICAL THERAPY!
Thank you for stopping by! Let's lose the loafers and lace up the running shoes. Before we hit the ground running, though, let's briefly pause to ponder.
What's Your Why?
As we head out for a run or ready ourselves for a race, it is certainly important to consider and respect the physical considerations of the expedition to prepare for success. Let us also remember to take our brains along with us! Here's a quick thought experiment that may be worth your while.
I'd like for you to dream a bit. What's your Why? What is the best possible sparkly, sublime, motivating, magnificently gritty outcome that could be realized by participating in running (and reading this blog)??
Remember and hold on to this.
Running is joyful. Running is rewarding. It is fun. Running increases dopamine and endorphins; the feel-good physiology within the brain.(1) Literature suggests that runners live longer.(2) Running helps kick stress.(4) It is energizing. Running can provide a meaningful routine. It is a way to get in shape. Running is a hobby. It is a sport. Running offers time to think. Running is a way to enjoy the "Beautiful gift of nature." (Albert Einstein) (3) One's list may literally be infinite.
Running is also challenging.
It has been said that, "It is not enough to just imagine the future. To bring an idea to fruition we must struggle with the uncompromising realities of the physical world. We need not only knowledge, but also tenacity." -Daniel Lieberman (5)
This is part of the process and the joy of running. It is hard work. It is a thoughtful endeavor. Challenges arise that require us to consider our options. Stop or Go? Red light or Green? Admittedly, sometimes the best decision is to modify a running plan. This choice is wise when faced with the need to respect an injury and actively pursue healing. On other occasions, obstacles rightly fuel one's resolve to tenaciously push on. When one holds fast to their reason for running, their Why, this fuel is at hand.
Whether running or otherwise, you are on a tremendous journey that requires not only knowledge, decision-making, and exertion, but also perseverance. When you stare struggle in the face, choose wisely.
As you run forth, may you remember your Why.
What business does Christen have writing a blog?
Given that she doesn’t care for the word ‘blog’, probably none! However, the Web+Log moniker harkening back to the late 90’s better appeals to the verbal palate and provides an in. Christen holds a doctorate in physical therapy and has practiced since 2009. She is board-certified as an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. Christen shares a love of long-distance running. She founded RUNNING ON SUNSHINE PHYSICAL THERAPY. In earlier times, she spearheaded an evidence-based practice committee and presented research findings to the physical therapy department as well as the organization at large. Christen is grateful for the tremendous opportunity to learn not only from colleagues and literature, but also from her patients and views them as treasured collaborators.
Please feel free to contact RUNNING ON SUNSHINE PHYSICAL THERAPY with any questions, insights, corny puns, or suggestions and to schedule an appointment.
RUNNING ON SUNSHINE PHYSICAL THERAPY
120 Bishops Way, Suite 154, Brookfield, WI 53005
414.702.2780
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your physician and/or physical therapist directly for specific recommendations regarding your care.
References:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/feel-good-hormones-how-they-affect-your-mind-mood-and-body
Lee D, Brellenthin A, Thompson P, Sui X, Lee I, Lavie C. Running as a key lifestyle medicine for longevity. Prog Cardiovasc Dis. 2017;60(1).
https://libquotes.com/albert-einstein/quote/lbm4g6a
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469
https://quotefancy.com/quote/3610524/Daniel-Z-Lieberman