I was reading an article by John Kabat-Zinn and I was struck by several key observations but the one I wish to discuss briefly today is the idea of 'Airscape'.
We are all very comfortable with the notion of 'Landscape' and idea of seeing some beautiful vista projected into our eyes. In a simple way we 'take it all in'.
Airscape is a notion of taking in and being aware of the air around you as you move, breath and , of course, run. We are, after all, moving under a sea of air and gaining a real sense of this life giving mixture permeating inside and around us is a very relaxing way to look through the world.
Danny Dreyer of chi living also points to having a centred approach to your movement, physical and mental. What he points to is allowing your fullest attention to be brought to the 'Dan Tien' centre (3" below your naval) and moving this first as you initiate any level of interaction. Clearly linking this with breathing through your centre and an awareness of 'airscape' gives a sense of stability and inner calmness.
This thinking and approach is now part of my running mind. Using holistic images and penetrative thoughts keeps me grounded.
I do meet runners who seem form pre-occupied to the point of being distracted. I get this point completely but finding the moment in every moment requires a different thinking, try it and see what it does for you?
