Mindful Miles

For months now, my step target has been my unwavering badge of honor. Since embracing “mindful miles,” I hit that goal every single day—it’s the one thing I could always count on.

But yesterday, my routine hit a wall.

A nasty concoction of lower back pain, a nagging migraine, a sore arm, and chest discomfort put a gradual anchor on my usual bouncy steps. Instead of the walk making me feel better, the fatigue was so heavy that my body was clearly requesting a change in goals.

Because I always listen when my body speaks, the only thing I could manage was a slow, deliberate march straight to an early bed. I barely scraped my step target, recording my lowest number yet, but I went to sleep knowing I had honored my true need.

I woke up this morning expecting the usual internal alarm clock, but the room was bright. I checked the time and realized, to my utter disbelief, that it was already past 10 AM!

Then came the real victory.

I checked my health record, and there it was: I had won. For the first time in what feels like forever, I had not only met my sleep target, but I had soared past it. My body had rewarded me for listening.

As a night worker, the few days I get to sleep in are truly treasured. I woke up to the sound of my family bustling quietly, ready to pamper me well into the morning with breakfast in bed.

Today, I’m not focused on the minor setback of my step count; I’m celebrating the major triumph of my rest. I prioritized self-care, and in return, I achieved an essential goal. I feel infinitely better, and that deep, restorative rest is the fuel for many more mindful miles to come.

Sometimes, the most valuable step you can take is the one that leads you straight to bed.