Mind Your Body TV Episode 50 with Serena Scott Thomas.
Maybe you thought—or were told—that you can’t run, or maybe you just think running is, well, boring. Mind Your Body TV wants to introduce you to a new way of running that will change your mind and further enhance your mind-body connection: Welcome to ChiRunning, the subject of our newest video. But first, why not watch our first episode on ChiWalking? Once again, we’re calling upon certified instructor Serena Scott Thomas to show me the way to run for health. We’re in the art park at UCLA for this demonstration.
You can improve personal performance
ChiRunning and ChiWalking techniques blend movement principles from the ancient martial art, T’ai Chi, with the active sports of running and walking, say Chi Living founders Katherine and Danny Dreyer. This blend creates a more mindful, centered and balanced approach to fitness. The Dreyers say ChiRunning can feel effortless and help us recapture the joy of running as a child. Fun! Here’s how:
- Reduce impact, stay pain-free, and run with confidence.
- Improve your posture, core strength, and use gravity to make running easier.
- Make running a fulfilling practice.
Since almost 80 percent of runners get injured each year, if you’re one, know that running doesn’t have to hurt. And if you’re already hurt, you can come back with ChiRunning.
How ChiRunning is different
If you’re wondering how ChiRunning differs from “regular running,” the Dreyers say this: “Most other running methods depend on strong leg muscles, so their emphasis is on leg conditioning and strengthening. ChiRunning emphasizes using core muscles which are stronger and more efficient. You’ll learn how to engage gravity, letting it do the work instead of your legs. As we say, ‘It ain’t the muscle, it’s the motion.’”
Watch as Serena explains the basics to me in the video. I am a runner, but ChiRunning forced me to really think about, and adjust, my body position correctly. And it incorporates mindfulness, or “being in the moment,” which is especially helpful when you’re outside in nature. Try running safely, easily, while feeling good about it. ChiRunning also offers online courses. See you on the trail!