It starts before I get back to the car. On my shins, calves, and thighs. Slight at first, then building up to a sensory cacophony that lasts well into the night, and, in some cases, into the following day. To some, it’s unwelcome – a hindrance of this time of year – but to others it’s a pleasant reminder, a side effect if you will that comes with the territory.
I’m not talking about some illicit drug, I’m talking about the tingling that is left behind after a trail run or country walk. Nettles and insects aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, especially if they bring with them an allergic reaction, and I’ve had some strong reactions in the past, but if it doesn’t bother you, like it doesn’t bother me, it’s a pleasant feeling that I find is a reminder of my pursuit. It’s a little like the endorphins released after exercise, or the lactic burn after a heavy session, or the muscle ache the day after a long run – a satisfying signpost back to my time outdoors.
For me this year, it’s been a fantastic summer of trail running, both solo and with club mates. It’s almost like some trail runners are never happy – all winter it’s the mud and cold, dark nights, longing for the summer evenings. Then once summer arrives, if it’s dry like this one, it’s the nettles and horse flies. The best times of year really are spring and autumn, though neither is guaranteed. This week’s trail run was the first run since April where we had to take head torches with us for the final mile or so.
Solo trail runs really enliven my senses. I generally run in the evenings for trails twice a week, and when I’m on my own, without the chatter and laughter, I’m aware of the reasons I love being outdoors. There’s the bird song for a start, especially in the spring. Then there’s the wind blowing the trees around. It’s funny how the sound of the summer breeze blowing through the treetops instantly reminds me of summer wildcamping. Many a trip out, spending the night under a tarp or just a sleeping bag and the stars listening out to what’s going on around me. Especially nice in the summer is if you have rain. As long as you’re covered up, and waterproofed up, you can just relax and listen to the raindrops falling on the full summer leaves. Absolute bliss.
A dry winter can mean running or walking through dry crunchy leaves. I have friends that I make sound recordings for of my walks trough the woods, listening to the general footfall, birds, babbling brooks and the aforementioned midsummer breeze. ASMR, I’m told.
I’ve always been fond of walking in relative silence when I’m alone in order to take in as much as I can. Running is different due to concentrating on foot placement and laboured breathing!
Autumn will come and go, and the gradual changes that come with it will pull me along, and I am sure my trail runs will evolve to night runs incorporating dark trails, providing more opportunities to enhance the senses. I will keep you posted.
My Outdoor Living Room 