Ok, I’ve got a confession: Having lived in the Bay Area for almost 10 years now, I sometimes find myself taking the city of San Francisco for granted. (I know…I know…)

It’s just entirely too easy to get swept up in the frenetic pace of life here, aptly described as a kind of “quiet frenzy.” But all it takes is one run to reconnect with the ridiculously-majestic natural beauty by which we’re surrounded.

Which is precisely why I’m making a concerted effort to step out of the usual “training tunnel vision” during some of my runs. And I’m encouraging you to do the same!

Huh, you say? Well, start by taking one run per week and removing all expectation of time, pace, distance, etc. Instead, focus on finding the reasons you started running in the first place and taking that time to stop and smell the roses, so to speak.

Here are a few things that made me slow down and smile during a recent run. Give it a shot, and feel free to share your experiences, too!

Taking some time to stop and smell the roses…literally

These SF hills are a daily test of stamina…and, more often than not, a blow to runners’ egos!

Fellow children of the 80’s, I dare you not to crack a smile when seeing this mid-hill

Say cheese! Stopping for a quick rest break (er, photo opp) to take in the view at Inspiration Point

Can’t really beat this view…

Me & the GGB! (Thanks to the kind stranger for snapping this, thus allowing me to avoid attempting an awkward public selfie)

Headed down to the base of the Golden Gate Bridge…love how you can see so much of the city here

Nope, it’s not a postcard; this is what it really looks like running up to the base of the bridge

Giving myself a high five for finishing! Now it’s just a matter of figuring out how to tackle those hills home…