There was a drizzle this evening, and the city streets took on a darker shade after soaking up the rain. I decided to put on my shoes to go for a run just because I could, because I said I would in my journal, and also to check off the “Exercise” box on my habit list. I felt a bit sluggish but motivated to go running regardless, thinking I would just run for 3 km and see what happens from there.

I started the run at my local park around 9:20 p.m. The air was chilly and perfumed with rain; there was barely anyone at the park compared to a usual weekend night, and the theme park section of the park had closed early. The park lamps, which usually turn on, were also turned off, making it hard for me to watch for puddles and bumps.

After 3 km, the park intercom announced that it was closing and everyone should leave the park. I was all warmed up, so I took my run out to the city streets, taking a long way through my neighborhood, passing the night market, the street food stalls, and shop vendors closing for the night—people hanging out with their friends or riding their bikes home. I finished the run in 40 minutes, covering 6 km, with a steady pace and heart rate.

Feeling proud of myself for starting and finishing the run, I closed out the weekend strong. I kept thinking to myself that the fact I’m running is a celebration of what my body and mind are capable of. The run helped my physical state as well as my mental state, and I’m already looking forward to the next run.

Check back with you soon! I hope this inspires you to go for a run!