WHEN THE BODY SAYS STOP,THE MIND SAYS GO:MY 10KM RUN AT THE RURII MARATHON

On 13 September 2025, I stood on the starting line of the Rurii Marathon knowing one thing — this run would test more than my legs. It would test my mind.

The race was organized to promote mental health awareness, and ironically, that message revealed itself most clearly during the toughest kilometers. I set out strong, focused, and determined. By the halfway mark, my breathing had changed, my legs felt heavy, and my body started sending clear signals: slow down, stop, rest.

But my mind refused to listen.

Every step after that felt like a negotiation between pain and purpose. My muscles burned, my lungs worked harder, and fatigue crept in. My body was begging me to stop — but my mind kept on moving. I reminded myself why I started, why I trained, and why finishing mattered more than comfort.

The road wasn’t just a physical path; it became a mental battlefield. I pushed through doubt, discomfort, and exhaustion, choosing discipline over excuses. The cheers from the community and the sight of fellow runners fighting their own battles fueled my resolve.

When I finally crossed the finish line, the clock read 1 hour for 10 kilometers. That moment wasn’t about the time — it was about victory over self-doubt. I proved to myself that limits are often mental before they are physical.

The Rurii Marathon wasn’t just a race. It was a lesson in resilience. A reminder that the mind must lead when the body grows tired. And a powerful symbol of why mental health awareness matters — because strength begins within.

I walked away exhausted but proud, knowing I didn’t just finish a run — I conquered a conversation between my body and my mind.

When the body begs you to stop, let your mind carry you forward.