How slow can you run and still call it running?

I am not sure how slow you can run and still call it running, but I was definitely pushing the edge of that question yesterday during my twenty mile run/walk.  I did a 5 mile loop near my house four times.  The first couple of loops were strong and I felt pretty good.  The third loop I started feeling tired and the fourth loop was nothing short of brutal.

I had perfect weather which helped, but as the day wore on, and I was running for 5 hours so it wore on and on, it got progressively warmer.  By the last 2 miles I felt like I was running on sticks with glass chards on my feet.  I also had some serious arm chaffing by the last loop.  I need to buy some "glide" or whatever its called.

Fortunately my orthotic inserts helped keep my feet in place and my toes were not as damaged as with the last two long runs.  Don't get me wrong, those big toenails will still be coming off at some point, but I did not have to pop any blisters underneath my toenails after this run.  I'll call that a win!

After a twenty mile run I was pretty non-functional.  I could barely walk and  things like making dinner or picking up after myself, forget about it.  Strangely, I seem to have a hard time regulating my body temperature after my last three long runs.   I think it is just a sign that I am asking too much of my body.  My left knee was also in throbbing pain last night making it very difficult to sleep, even with advil and tylenol, my knee persisted in throbbing.

Today is better.  I can walk like a normal person although I do feel bone tired.  I am not excited about my next run.  Thankfully, my next long run is not for another three weeks.

The highlight of this twenty mile tour around the neighborhood was listening to my Integrative Nutrition lectures while I was run/walking.  Ironically one of the lectures was on Ayurvedic medicine by .  The theme was to go with the flow, living in tune with the seasons,  and nothing in excess.  Do you think running for 5 hours is excessive?  I do.  I'll start being more balanced on October 31st.

 My favorite that I listened to was Bernie Seigel, an MD who works with a lot of cancer patients.  He had great advice for living life and being in tune with your body.  He shared amazing stories of recovery, hope and spirituality.  It reminded me of what a blessing it is to be alive and to be able to do this marathon to honor my mother.