I Ran the NYC Half Marathon – on 1 Hour of Sleep!

Posted on by beautybeyondbones

Yes – you read that correctly, and no it’s not click bait!

Hello friends, good morning. My eyes are bleary and my legs are shot – but I’ve got 13.1 miles under my belt and a heart full of really fun memories!

Let’s just get right into it, shall we? Because like…how in the world did it come to be that I made the — admittedly really stupid decision — to run on just 60 precious minutes of Z’s?

Well – the night before was one of my best friend’s birthday party. And so I didn’t get home until 4:30 in the morning. Clean, innocent fun – just…really late!

I came home, took a power nap for an hour, and then hopped in an Uber to Brooklyn, where the race began at 7am!

I’ve got to tell you – it was such an incredible experience. I ran it with a dear friend, and we finished in under 2 hours!

We started in Brooklyn, ran through Prospect Park, through the little BK neighborhoods, past the Barclays Center, over the Manhattan bridge, on the FDR Highway which overlooks the East River, through Times Square — which they had closed! — and finally, through Central Park and finishing at Tavern on the Green!

It was like a love letter to NYC. You really got a feel for all the different neighborhoods and topography of the city.

But the coolest part was that along the entire course, there were people cheering us on! It was such a sight to behold. Thousands and thousands and thousands of people, all lining the streets with signs and cowbells and enthusiasm – cheering on the runners!

And naturally, over the course of the 13.1 miles, I got to do some thinking! Because, clearly — I had some time. But it was such a beautiful parallel to – not just recovery – but life in general.

The course, it had some crazy hills, making that stretch of race particularly difficult. But to have a friend to run with, and having people there cheering us on – it made it easier. And dare I say it…fun!

There’s nothing more beautiful, than community. Sometimes I think we underestimate the positive impact we can have on people. A kind word, a genuine smile, a random phone call to catch up — we are all running this life race together, and if we can cheer someone else on — it really makes a difference.

Another thing I thought about – was how far I’ve come in my freedom from anorexia. Recovery is a journey, and with it comes many seasons. And for me, one of those seasons in my early recovery, was a severe addiction to exercise.

Exercise addiction is a common manifestation of an eating disorder, and many girls use it as a crutch in their recovery to – not so discreetly – hang onto a warped sense of control.

And that was absolutely my case. And to read how I finally kicked that addiction once and for all — you can click here.

But, to see how my relationship with exercise has gotten to where it is today — where I am no longer chained to grueling workouts, or self-hate-driven sessions of pushing my body to the absolute limit — it filled my heart with so much joy.

So for me to be able to run a half marathon, out of pure enjoyment, celebrating my healed and healthy body, – it was a such a meaningful victory.

I just remember back to those days, of feeling absolutely trapped – in a whirlwind – and just clinging to a false sense of control.

How things have changed. My body is not mine to destroy. Nor is it the be all-end all to my worth. Nor, is it a punching bag for me to take out my fears and anxieties.

It is a temple of the Holy Spirit. And how I treat it is a direct reflection of my love for the Father. Because He made me. He fashioned me together, and His spirit is dwelling in my heart. So the love and respect that I now show my body is an act of worship.

Nourishing my body, staying healthy and strong, filling up my spirit with positive and nurturing relationships, celebrating all the wonderful things God created me to do: dancing, jumping, running, resting — it gives glory to God.

My body is an act of worship.

So being able to to do this race — from the right mindset — it was so incredibly meaningful.

Will I be doing another half marathon? Eeh, probably not. Maybe if the spirit moves me, but for now – I’m going to just listen to my body — and right now, it’s telling me to take a nap and let it heal from the exertion yesterday!

But before I do – I got a few DMs on Instagram, asking about tips for running a half marathon.

So – the number one question was what type of running shoes: and here they are….They’re honestly like running on a dream. The insoles are orthopedic quality, so they are really supportive, and they look super cool. I also wore these on my 80 mile hike on the Camino de Santiago this summer in Spain. And let me just say – they are the best shoes I’ve ever owned.

What are good pre run snacks when you’re gluten free?

I like to go as nutrient dense as possible – so that’s nut butters, avocado, larabars. I’m not a huge fan of smoothies or protein shakes before a run, because it feels like it’s sloshing around in my stomach. So I always opt for a banana with lots of almond butter!

General tips for racing?

Here’s the thing: if you’re like me, and are competitive to a fault, then you’ll want to keep up with “the pack” of runners. But honestly, you’re going to burn out so quickly if you try to run faster than you’re used to. So put your pride aside and just run your own race. Which, is honestly, such an allegory for life. But let ’em pass you! Especially at the beginning, it’ll feel like everybody and their brother is zipping past you, but just run your race. Have fun, and celebrate with gratitude for the ability to run and move your muscles! God is good!

Also – this is weird, but always brush your teeth before you go! haha Having a pleasant minty fresh mouth, in my opinion, is the optimal experience. Plus – not to be gross, but if I can feel, like, part of a pumpkin seed stuck in my molars, it will drive me nuts the whole time. So yeah — brush your teeth. And – shameless plug – use my magic whitening toothpaste! Haha I’m not kidding – it’s a life changing product!

And similarly, always slap on some chapstick before you go. In my running fanny pack, I always keep my favorite tube of chapstick, and Listerine pocket strips!

Lastly – REST!! After a long run – especially a half marathon, your muscles are taxed!! So give it a break! Treat it with some love.

And on that note — take care of your feet! When I’m just walking around the house, I wear my Yoga Toes, which really helps keep my alignment correct. And then I always make sure to remove any callouses, and keep them lotioned!

OK that’s all for today! Have a great day!

Sign up below for my free newsletter!
Get my daily videos, recipes and posts delivered straight to your inbox!

[mc4wp_form id=”30616″]

Here was yesterday’s video! https://youtu.be/8pmp4ZI968A

A big thank you to my foundational sponsor, BetterHelp Online Therapy. I cannot begin to express how beneficial therapy was for my recovery from anorexia.  Speak with an online therapist. Or check out content about eating disorders from BetterHelp.

OH MY GOSH THE SPRING BOX IS HERE!!!!!! Have you seen my latest FabFitFun video? Because…you should watch it. It’s pretty funny. And then order yourself a box with my code SPRINGLOVE for $10 off! 😉

Be sure to check out my affiliate, Audible. Listening to audiobooks while I cook is literally my new favorite thing. And just for you, they’re offering a Free 30-Day Trial Membership. And with this free membership, you’re going to get 2 free audiobooks! Literally. Free. It is the best deal ever. And if for some reason, you decide it’s not for you, you can cancel within those 30 days and it’s zero money out of your pocket, plus, you get to keep the 2 audiobooks. Soooo…it’s pretty much a no brainer. Plus, it’s a free and easy way to support this blog! So thank you!! Get Your Two Free Audiobooks! 

***THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO HAS ORDERED MY BOOKS, BLOOM: A JOURNAL BY BEAUTYBEYONDBONES AND “MY BLOGGING TIPS“***

Click to order your copy!

STAY CONNECTED!

@beauty.beyond.bones – Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

YouTube

For Podcast versions of my posts, please check out Patreon! It’s only $2 a month!! You make this blog possible 🙂

And really quickly, I’ve had several questions concerning my Amazon link (amazon.com/shop/beautybeyondbones) — You do not need to buy one of my specific highlighted products on my page, in order for it to “credit” my account. Any purchases that you search or make from anywhere on Amazon, after first visiting my Amazon page, will credit this blog and help support this blog ministry. I am truly so grateful and appreciative to those of you wanting to do so! So thank you! Again, it is an absolutely free, and easy way for you to help keep this blog going!

Published by

Unknown's avatar

beautybeyondbones

BBB: Because we're all recovering from something. // For speaking/business inquiries: beautybeyondbones@yahoo.com

207 thoughts on “I Ran the NYC Half Marathon – on 1 Hour of Sleep!”

  4. Awesome! I’ve run races on little sleep and it’s a whole new experience, haha! Especially the recovery. But you are young so I’m sure you’ll bounce back quickly. Thanks for sharing about your recovery. I know a lot of exercise addicts.

    Like

    1. Thank you so much!! yeah, sadly the addiction to exercise is far too common. makes me sad to think about!! big hugs xo

      Like

  5. Congrats on running your race – I love that! Two weeks ago, a minister preached from Romans 12:1-2 about presenting our bodies to God as our spiritual act of worship, and that has been on my mind ever since. They further preached this in the context of reclaiming our health – the minister is also a RD! Then recently, I heard Sonalee Rashatwar say she considers her body as a family heirloom. I love that view of the body as well, and I think these two concepts go together so well. God gives us our bodies to honor and worship Him, and they are also a treasured heirloom from those who come before us. Our bodies are so special. 🙂

    Like

    1. Thank you so much!! You’re so right about that – we’re given them to honor and worship — love that so much. And not to mention…we’re made in His image!! how cool is that! Thanks for sharing that!!! hugs xo

      Like

  6. Congrats on the half-marathon, what an accomplishment! I saw you are on youtube, I am now one of your followers. I have a channel too, it is called Kathiey’s World. Thanks for your post!

    Like

    1. Thank you so much!! yes! I am on YouTube! 2019, I’ve fallen off my daily videos, but as soon as life settles down a bit, I will be back to making them again! Thank you for the follow! I’ll definitely check yours out too!!! hugs xo

      Like

      1. Sounds ike you think you could do better. Which is a sign you have caught the running bug. Think my best time is 1h40min. Since breaking my fifth metatarsal havent been doing that much but do miss it. Didnt break running, got caught with high heel, not good.

        Like

      2. Wow that’s amazing! And oh no!! I’m so so sorry to hear that!! Aw that’s so tough. Hugs and love xox

        Like

  9. This post and the one you linked to about exercise in recovery are so perfect for me right at this moment. Just this morning, I was praying and journaling to God about how frustrated I am that I can’t seem to make the decision to treat my body as a temple {as though I should be able to do it by sheer willpower}. I abuse it with either eating things my body doesn’t like or exercising too much as a form of punishment or worrying about gaining weight. Or doing all three on any given day. I am so so frustrated. However, I’m so glad that God has brought me to this place and I’m so glad you posted what you did today. It gives me many things to ponder. Thank you for always being real 🙂

    Like

    1. thank you so much Callee, I’m so glad it resonated with you. And I really appreciate you sharing your heart. Hang in there. You’re doing an awesome thing by giving it to God. Becuase you’re right – it’s a temple! 🙂 big hugs to you xox

      Like

  16. Wow, that’s awesome! I mean, I know you’re not hosting a running blog, but I had no idea you ran (though, duh, right?) Great time too!

    I’m a little jealous. I’m running the Colorado Springs Half Marathon in September and I’m a little nervous about it… plus I’m looking at a possible finish time of over 2 hours (cuz I’m old and slow).

    One thing your readers should know: the Brooks Ghosts may not be their running shoe. I think that’s a neutral shoe, and if they’re interested in running, they should get fitted at a running store to find their own shoe. (I’m a Brooks runner too, but I know you look way better modelling your shoe than I do modelling mine! 🙂 )

    Like

    1. Thank you so much Matt!! Haha yeah, only a little bit. I didn’t train for this – I mainly take walks for my exercise! Haha that’s a really great point about the shoes! Every foot is different and a proper fit goes miles – literally! Good luck on the Half in September! That’s awesome! Also – I love Colorado Springs 🙂

      Like

      1. Under two hours and you didn’t train for it. Geez… it’s a good thing I leave my Feeling in my other jeans so it doesn’t get hurt 😉 Seriously… despite my competitive nature, I like that running isn’t a competition between people (unless you want it to be). It’s not always easy, but I try to focus on only competing with myself.

        Colorado Springs is lovely. You could come run the half marathon here, too, without training; and shame me in person. 😀

        Like

      2. Hahaha seriously you’re too funny. A half at that altitude would definitely take some training!! We’re chillin at sea level here in nyc! Hehe

        Like

  20. I was just compelled by the Holy Spirit to tell you this: “Do not let anyone get you down. The Lord loves you and that must trump everything. You are loved, precious one.” Just the messenger. Pleas be encouraged and as always, I love and believe in you also. XO😄❤

    Like

    1. Hi Tonya, oh gosh – this is honestly coming at the perfect time. THANK YOU. You’re definitely being Jesus’s hands and feet – and I couldn’t be more grateful for this encouragement!!! Biggest hugs to you, friend xox

      Like

      2. ☺️☺️☺️☺️☺️yes He does! And for all His children! ☺️☺️🥰🥰

        Like

  21. Congratulations! I remember running a Half Marathon not long ago and was not 100% trained for it and the last 3 miles were just down right miserable. Thanks for the tips too, I’m running in the Texas Independence Relay next weekend. I’ve been training for about a month for my 3 legs that I have to do. I’m excited and nervous. 🙂

    Like

  23. Oh I love the application you make here. Got to take good care of the temple don’t we? It’s a long time since I took on something as gruelling as your marathon. At my age its a maintenance job now but very necessary if not always enjoyable. 🙂

    Like

  26. I know the title wasn’t click bait, but it worked. All I could thing was, “This girl is Wonder Woman.” As always, you didn’t disappoint with taking an ordinary life event and extracting the biblical principles. I direct people to your blog all the time, especially Christian ladies. Thanks for being a bright spot on the internet!

    Like

    1. Haha oh my gosh you’re too kind! Thank you!!! And wow – I am so honored that you would pass along my site. Thank you Matthew! Hugs and love xox

      Like

  27. Hi Caralyn! Great job on finishing your NYC Half! It’s inspiring to see you relate your athletic endeavors to your recovery. Thanks for the tips, too! I had some Brooks shoes that I liked a lot and ran many miles in them until they wore out. Was this your first half marathon?

    Like

    1. Thank you so much Zik!! Yes it was my first half. It was pretty fun! And oh yes – Brooks are amazing shoes! Hugs and love xox

      Like

  28. PTL! Congrats on finishing your race. Thanks for sharing NY with me in a whole new personal way! So loving!
    I am also so touched by your following the Holy Ghost with a no matter what. That’s when we know we love someone. When we know we trust them. Wholeheartedly! ❤

    Like

      1. Thank you for being so patient with me to answer! I gave that extra copy of Bloom to my friend. I mentioned that too in Leah & Rachel Bible Study Night 2 of 6. She loves it! Me and God love you!

        Like

      2. Oh my gosh I am so incredibly touched by that!! I’m so glad your friend is enjoying it! You rock, Gail. Thank you! Love you, friend!

        Like

Join the Conversation!