A Quiet Calm

When I was walking to my lecture this morning I had a revelation of sorts. It was sunny and warm so I decided to go commando south of the ankles. I was amongst the chaos and noise that is rush hour on a tuesday morning when all of a sudden the world went quiet. It was weird but at the same time I felt a wonderful sense of inner calm and bliss. And it wasn't because I had frozen time (althought THAT would be pretty cool) and it wasn't because I had covered my ears. It was my feet. For some reason my mind decided to tune into my footsteps and I realised for the first time how quiet my footsteps now really are. And the more I focused on the sound, or lack of, of my bare feet on the pavement the more quiet the world got around me. It is really hard to explain without sounding completely nuts. But it was amazing. It was almost like meditational walking, if that is possible?! I have felt something similar when running barefoot but not with the intensity I had today. It would be amazing to reach that level of inner calm and quiet when I run though.

Speaking of run. I have agreed to do the Wellington Half Marathon with a pal of mine. Well, the run falls in exam week so there is a real potential for a no show on the day, but we'll see. I shall train for it either way. I am going to follow the recommended 10-week training plan. I like routines and plans because than means less chance of distractions and/or procrastination. And having a buddy to do it with usually means more success in sticking to it. We officially start training the week of 11th April. VERY excited. I plan to do it barefoot or do half in my Luna sandals and half barefoot. I'll see how I feel closer to the time. It will be my first ever official event in bare feet and boy am I ready for it. Let the countdown begin...

The Original Luna

Yesterday I finally ordered my first pair of Huarache sandals. It is something I have wanted to do since reading Born to Run by Christopher McDougall. Meeting Barefoot Ted last week definitely inspired me to finally get a pair.

Rene, Barefoot Ted & Me

I try to be barefoot most of the time but there are always going to be situations where being barefoot is just not going to work. I have had a pair of Fivefinger Sprints for 18 months and love them... but they too, in their Ferrari red sleekness, don't suit some occasions. What I like about the idea of the Huaraches is that they should be the missing link and will be the choice when going to the more formal, less casual events.

I went with The Original Luna model from Luna Sandals. For my first pair (of many, I hope) I thought it would be best to start with the basic, classic Huaraches. Then I can get a real feel for them before I decide what other features I might prefer.

Tarahumara Huaraches

I am so excited for them to arrive. Being in New Zealand means I might have to wait a bit longer but I'm betting it will be worth it. When I get them I will be sure to do a review pre/post run.