Pure energy is the energy of awareness, of the present. It’s the most powerful energy. This energy is mentioned as the energy of the quantum field. It’s also called the Tao in Tao Te Ching:

“When looked at, it is not much to see.

When listened for, it can scarcely be heard.

But when put into practice, it is inexhaustible.”

This oceanic energy of the cosmos can nourish and protect us.

So how can we access pure energy while running?

First, be aware of the space surrounding your body and about 2-3 meters in front of you. You can open the scope of the space, but a smaller scope will be productive for running. If you are aware of that space and your body is in it, you’re safe. You will know what your body is doing, where it has pain, and where it needs care. You will also see how your body moves effortlessly through obstacles when they appear in the space.

“She who is centered in the Tao can go where she wishes, without danger.” - Tao Te Ching

Centering in the Tao means be aware of the space of awareness surrounding your body and the environment.

Start running gently, relaxing all your muscles.

Relax your attention into the space while your body is moving. Center your eyes in the unmoving space in front of you.

Gradually, you can speed up by moving your attention to the breath. Every time you breathe in, enjoy the air coming in as a way to reward yourself. Our body always looks for a reward every time it makes an effort. It feels satisfied with a deep in-breath.

When you want to return to a stable pace, simply relax your attention into the space. After a while, you can feel you’re “swimming” in the air. You don’t feel you need to make an effort to run. The body keeps running while you’re floating in the air, covering and supporting the body.

Whenever you need to speed up, gently move your attention to the breath; and enjoy the reward of each deep in-breath.

On the contrary, tensing your muscles and making a great effort while running is making your physical energy run out. Thinking, even with beautiful thoughts, while running also blocks the flow of pure energy. Moving your eyes around or connecting with objects while running makes your energy level fluctuated.

Relax into the scope of the space, and you can easily run for 5-6 miles every night, even when you’re on a diet. If your legs have pain somewhere, move attention to that part but keep running gently. It will get healed.

After running, you will feel your body is renewed, your mind is elevated, and your spirit soars high!

Pure energy, awareness, is the energy that heals and protects you. Hold on to the space!

“The Tao is called the Great Mother: empty yet inexhaustible, it gives birth to infinite worlds.” - Tao Te Ching

Cheers, Marathoners!

Running Meditation-Accessing Pure Energy