After months of design & planning, April 8th finally arrived.

In January, I began taking action toward bringing my coaching and running specific events to life. Through my partnership with lululemon, I was given space to dream and collaborate to execute beyond what I knew to anticipate. My intentions and the desire for connection between organizations prompted me to conceive a “dream” running event. 

Coming into this space, I knew there were aspects of running that I wanted to share, the importance of fueling (utilizing my favorite post-run snacks, chocolate milk & kettle corn), a variety of recovery practices, mindfulness, breath work, and the power of connecting to optimism in the running environment. Utilizing this framework of specific qualities, the day took form. 

I arrived that day feeling like a spring coiled up, ready to explode. My system has nervous jitters, excitement, and probably too much caffeine. As I arrived onsite at the Salt Shed, feeling the glorious Chicago sun break through for the first 60+ degree day, my nerves felt soothed. 

As people arrived, the reality of the creation came to life. Over 100 people arrived on site, ready to run, be in the community with others, and experience the joy of movement. The energy felt contagious, caught in that happy place where Chicagoans rejoice at any opportunity to bask in the sun. It was clear this day would be special. 

The run began with an invitation for all those attending to marvel at the beauty of the Salt Shed and the backdrop of the city in the distance. I started this day together, like I start most group settings, with breathwork and calling each runner to be aware of the power of their breath. There was a raffle for 8-weeks of training with me, with all donations going towards Girls on the Run, a non-profit that supports and inspires girls by building confidence, kindness, and decision-making skills through running. Four different pace groups were provided so all participants could run with others. 

On the run, we wound through the city streets, sharing conversations and smiles, looping around for a 5k distance. Upon arrival at the Salt Shed, chocolate milk, kettle corn, fruit, coffee, and water awaited us. It put a smile on my face to hear people say, “I can’t remember the last time that I had chocolate milk.” Snacks and sunrays were enjoyed in the period between the breakout sessions. 

When signing up, guests decided between different recovery breakout sessions to enjoy; sauna club, yoga & mobility, or myofascial release & singing bowl meditation. All breakout sessions were held by individuals that I respect immensely. Paige, a fellow lululemon ambassador, runner, and my favorite yogi, guided us through a feel-good post-run movement. Tristen, my go-to for bodywork and all-around healing, led the meditation. It was beautiful moving through the different sessions to see how individuals connected to the various recovery modalities. 

The event concluded with lots of hugs and smiles, making me incredibly grateful for all those that attended. There was so much support to put this event together & I’m still in a state of shock and gratitude for the community that made it possible. Seeing the joy and satisfaction on the faces of everyone involved was incredible, and it served as a reminder of how powerful and rewarding events like these can be.