Quirks I noticed when I do ultra endurance challenges

When you're deep into an ultra-endurance challenge — the kind that stretches your limits and your mind — you discover a different side of yourself. And you start doing things that feel a bit strange from the outside, but are absolute lifelines from within.

Here are a few of the small but mighty things I do during ultra challenges — some learned through therapy, some discovered along the way — that help me stay grounded, focused, and moving forward.

The Ohm Sign: A grounding gesture on the run

During my therapy training and hypnotherapy practice, I learned the power of somatic anchors — small, intentional gestures that calm the nervous system and help bring us back into the present moment. One of my favourites is making the ohm sign: Gently pressing my index finger and thumb together while my hand rests open.

When I run, I sometimes do this mid-stride — especially when I feel overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected. It’s subtle, almost like a moving meditation, and it reminds me that I am safe, I am here, I am okay. It helps me soften my breath and tune into my body’s rhythm, even when everything feels hard.

The Tiny & Loud Screams

Let’s be honest: Endurance challenges can hurt. When my muscles start rebelling or a cramp kicks in, I’ve found that letting out a short, sharp scream (not too loud — I don’t want to scare the sheep or people in Dorset ;) helps me release the tension. It’s not dramatic. Just a tiny rebellion against the pain. And then… relief. Again - it might sound weird but it helps me.

Singing to Myself

Sometimes it’s a power anthem. Sometimes it’s a made-up melody in my head. Singing out loud keeps me light, focused, and moving. It lifts the energy, silences doubt, and reconnects me with joy. When the miles feel endless, this becomes my lifeline. (Yes, I’ve had conversations with cows while singing. No regrets.)