By Okon Ekpenyong

MUNISH ARYA is passionate about helping others find inner peace and tranquility through the practice of yoga. He believes that yoga can be a powerful tool for helping people, especially those running in Sunday’s 43rd Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & 17th Half Marathon, to stay healthy and balanced, both mentally and physically

Munish will be joining thousands of other runners to show his support for the cause and to demonstrate that yoga can be a powerful tool for staying fit and well. There is also a Wheelchair Division highlighting the importance of inclusivity. 

Columbus Marathon promotes healthy living, supports charitable causes, and celebrates the city’s vibrant culture. The event also encourages runners to challenge themselves, push their limits, and strive for personal bests. Days before the big race, New Americans Magazine caught up with the yoga instructor. 

1. Benefits of Yoga for Runners:

• Improved Flexibility: Yoga helps increase the flexibility of muscles and joints, reducing the risk of injuries and improving your running form.

• Strength and Balance: Many yoga poses require and build strength and balance, which can help runners stabilize their core and maintain good posture during a run.

• Injury Prevention: Yoga can help prevent common running injuries, such as IT band syndrome, shin splints, and Achilles tendonitis, by addressing muscle imbalances and promoting overall body awareness.

• Mental Focus: Yoga encourages mindfulness and mental clarity, which can be beneficial for runners to stay focused during long-distance races.

• Stress Reduction: Yoga and breathing techniques can reduce stress and promote relaxation, aiding post-run recovery and overall well-being.

2. Fundamental Yoga Poses for Runners:

Some essential yoga poses that can benefit runners include:

• Downward Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): This pose stretches the calves and hamstrings while strengthening the shoulders and core.

• Warrior Poses (Virabhadrasana I and II): These poses help improve hip flexibility, strengthen leg muscles, and develop balance and stability.

• Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana): Pigeon pose is excellent for opening up the hips, which can alleviate tightness in runners.

• Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana): The bridge pose strengthens the glutes, lower back, and hamstrings while stretching the front of the body.

• Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana): This pose stretches the hamstrings and calves, promoting flexibility and reducing muscle tightness.

3. Integrating Yoga into Your Running Routine:

• Schedule Yoga Sessions: Set aside specific times in your week for yoga practice, whether after a run, on rest days, or as a separate workout.

• Online Resources: Access online yoga classes or videos that cater to runners, which can help you follow structured routines.

• Attend Yoga Classes: Join a local yoga class or find a yoga studio that offers courses suitable for runners.

• Listen to Your Body: Be mindful of your body’s needs. On days when you feel particularly tight or fatigued, prioritize yoga to aid recovery and prevent injuries.

• Cross-Training: Incorporate yoga as a cross-training to improve your overall fitness and running performance.

I have regularly participated in the Nationwide Children’s Columbus Marathon and OhioHealth Capacity half-marathon since 2019. My inspiration and motivation for participating in marathons are deeply rooted in several aspects of this challenging and rewarding pursuit. I believe an essential factor is contributing to Children’s better health.

Physical and Mental Health: 

Running marathons is a powerful way to maintain and improve my physical and mental health. The sense of accomplishment I feel after completing a marathon and the enhanced endurance and cardiovascular health I gain inspire me to continue running.

Setting and Achieving Goals: 

Training for and completing a marathon involves setting and achieving goals. It’s immensely satisfying to work towards a goal for months, overcome obstacles, and ultimately cross the finish line.

Community and Camaraderie: 

The running community is incredibly supportive. The shared experience of pushing our limits and encouraging one another during races and training runs is a significant source of inspiration. I’m motivated by the camaraderie and friendships I’ve developed through running.

Overcoming Challenges: 

Marathons present significant challenges, both physical and mental. The opportunity to push through these challenges, to learn from them, and to become mentally stronger is a constant motivation for me.

Personal Growth: 

Running marathons is a journey of self-discovery. It’s an opportunity to learn more about my resilience, discipline, and determination. I find inspiration in continually evolving as a person through this sport.

Supporting Causes: 

Many marathons are associated with charitable causes. Participating in events that raise funds for critical issues or organizations gives my running a more profound sense of purpose.

Celebrating Life: 

Running marathons is a celebration of life and health. It’s a reminder to make the most of our opportunities and abilities.

My motivation to run marathons comes from physical and mental health benefits, the pursuit of personal growth, the sense of accomplishment, and the vibrant running community. These factors collectively inspire and drive me to continue participating in marathons year after year.

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