As runners, we often focus on the physical benefits of our practice, such as improving our cardiovascular health, building endurance, and increasing strength. However, running can also have a profound impact on our spiritual well-being. In this blog post, we will explore how developing spiritual practices can enhance our mindful running experience.

One book that has gained popularity among runners is Church of the Wild by Victoria Loorz. Loorz founded the Center for Wild Spirituality and Creativity, which seeks to integrate spirituality and creativity through nature-based practices. In her book, Loorz presents principles and practices for developing a deeper connection with nature, ourselves, and the divine.

One of the key principles in Church of the Wild is “wild attention,” which involves becoming fully present in the moment and noticing the details of our surroundings. This is similar to the mindfulness practice of “noticing,” where we observe our thoughts and surroundings without judgment. Incorporating wild attention into our running practice can help us become more attuned to our body, our breath, and the natural world around us.

Another practice Loorz discusses is “wild gratitude,” which involves expressing appreciation for the beauty and abundance of nature. Practicing gratitude can have a positive impact on our mental health and well-being. As runners, we can express gratitude for the opportunity to move our bodies, for the beauty of the natural world we run in, and for the ability to push ourselves to new limits.

Finally, Loorz encourages us to cultivate a sense of “wild kinship,” which involves recognizing our interconnectedness with all beings and the natural world. This can help us develop a greater sense of empathy, compassion, and care for ourselves, others, and the planet.

Incorporating these principles into our running practice can deepen our spiritual connection and enhance our mindful running experience. We can start by taking a few moments before our run to set an intention or express gratitude. During our run, we can practice wild attention by noticing our breath, the sound of our footsteps, and the beauty around us. And after our run, we can take a moment to reflect on our experience and express gratitude for the opportunity to connect with nature and ourselves. As we embrace the wild within us, we can transform our running practice into a spiritual journey of self-discovery, connection, and growth.