An unexpected trail run...

Chapman Field Trail Run

Today I decided to explore a new route. The weather was absolutely beautiful and the blue skies were calling! So I packed my car, and headed out to a mountain bike trail near Chapman Field Park in Miami, Florida.

Ocean View

The first thing I noticed and really appreciated was how relaxing the trail was. Nothing beats the feeling of running in the woods to nurture the soul!

As I ran forward, I found a passage that looked very promising. I realized this was, in fact, a trail that branches out from the main one and decided to continue my exploration. Once inside, I was greeted by the ocean to my left and a channel to my right. Everything in between was just about the right amount of mud to soften my landing.

Once I headed back to the main trail, I continued exploring for a bit and had some mixed feelings along the way. The trail is obviously no where near the level of my favorite trails such as Virginia Key, Oleta, and Amelia but then again, this is a trail that is meant to be used as a place to relax and enjoy.

This trail run provided me with an opportunity to remember how much I love trail running. 

Channel View

Trails are my happy place, period! 

They have taught me to slow down. They've changed my running gait. I now take shorter, quicker strides and land more on my forefoot than my heel. They've also forced me to work on my balance. However, the most important lesson trail running has offered is to relax.

At the end of my run I decided to walk up the road to cool off. I was so happy I did for I was rewarded with the most beautiful view of the day; a mother peahen and her peachicks. 

I stopped for just a moment and appreciate all aspects of this view; it's beauty, it's wholeness, it's message. 

Peacock Family

For an instant, I became attune to myself.  I saw my entire moment with no past or future. 

The peacocks, at the end of my trail run,  reminded me to be still and live in the now.