The Innerwork Dialogues 06: Deeper Reflections

Running On Purpose

In the 6th installment of the "Kobe & Steve Show", which I call The Innerwork Dialogues, we start in a more contemplative mood & take our time in getting around to our planned discussion topic of No Assumptions. In fact, we realized about an hour in that we'd really not specifically addressed the topic but instead spent our time reflecting on the initial two topics, while at the same time looking forward to the next two topics. We consider the differences between contemplation & mindfulness, between full engagement & the observing witness position. I argue that considering space as our natural state is more useful for Westerners - & runners especially - than the idea of emptiness. Running allows for skillful means for working somatically - with the nervous system as our guide - with attention & awareness. Kobe & I discuss a specific coaching situation & try to unpack why some athletes are not appropriate for the kind of coaching methods we utilize. So much is considered here, as usual in these conversations, but we didn't really hit on No Assumptions & we plan to approach that next time we talk.