05/29/2026
Pre-mountain run enthusiasm
Overcoming inertia
Inertia is one of the challenges we all face.
I am about to launch into a long run up the sublime mountain trails above Chamonix, France.
However, protests are erupting: the mind votes no. The body follows,slouching forward.
But another power exists within us to acknowledge, meet and transcend these objections. The subtle intellect is a power to steer us onto far more conscious, constructive and contributive directions.
So when stuck, inert or captured by some emotion or limiting pattern I see it and then ask for guidance. The intellect guides the mind much like reins guide the horse.
The reins in this case are the values, rules, laws of how this all works-how we work. Sourced in ancient wisdom, it the subtle intellect lifts us up from inertia to inspired action.
For example, my running is spiritual practice, a means to explore the physical, emotional, mental, intellectual and spiritual.
It is also a proven path to ensure good health - especially mental health. Depression has been a frequent inhabitant that tends to lessen through running (please note: there is more to healing depression than running, but this is certainly a cornerstone).
I am lucky, too. A little boy within still cries in wonder about the beauty of the world and its inhabitants. When running on trails and mountains that curious boy squeals in delight, wondering what is around the corner, or up the mountain, or just the step ahead.
Sometimes it’s OK to remain still, quiet, because it may be all our parts require rest. Don’t judge that (you’ll be tempted to-another harmful, limiting pattern to dissolve through the study and practice of self knowledge).
It’s all good, valid, and pieces of the magnificent puzzle of what makes us fully human.
Which is the essence of my purpose.
Peter Bromley
Applied wisdom for works in progress