Happy Global Wellness Day - Reflections on Sweat!

 

Global Wellness Day 2026 fell on Saturday, June 13, marking the movement's 15th anniversary. The official theme for this year was #JoyMagenta, a celebration of emotional connection, healing, and finding happiness in simple, everyday wellbeing practices. As the founder of #globalwellnessday, Belgin Aksoy, said on her Instagram page, "Do not wait for a life threatening illness to focus on wellness!"

Garmin let me know it was Global Wellness Day and rewarded me with a badge after recording our magnificent morning, albeit a bit sultry miles. Who needs a reward when feeling free, strong and joyful is the reward for being unplugged, soaking up the magnificence of Nature and being side by side, stride by stride with my bestie Tom.

The diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006 was my wake-up call. I do wish I didn't wait for a life threatening illness to focus on wellness, but we don't know what we don't know. With my journey back to health and wellness, I can inspire and motivate others. 

Summer has finally returned to Boston which means sweaty runs and workouts. I love embracing my sweat and the feeling of sweat trickling down the small of my back long after the workout has ended. As George Sheehan said, "Sweat cleanses from the inside out. It reaches places a shower never could."

"The cure for anything is Saltwater: sweat, tears or the sea," is a wise quote by Isak Dinesen. As we got in our magnificent morning miles in South Boston on Saturday, Tom and I felt exhilarated, cleansed and renewed. Every step of mine was infused with gratitude to be back by the ocean feeling its magic and magnificence.

During the week we had soupy steamy miles around the Cleveland Circle Reservoir. Being unplugged out in Nature and soaking up the negative air ions from the water is one of my favorite health and wellness practices. The negative air ions created by water are known to purify the air and boost mood.

 

If you would have seen me 19 years ago in a toe-up leg brace using a cane and at times a wheelchair for mobility, you would never have guessed (nor would I) that I'd be out on in the morning getting in magnificent morning miles. It's a gift to rise above the noise that's happening in the world and find serenity unplugged in Nature. It's a sacred time Tom and I spend together. I love the scents, sights and sounds of late Spring in Boston and the sensation of sweat from my forehead cascading into my eyes. 

I share my healing story to inspire others with what's possible despite a devastating diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome and a dire prognosis of spending the rest of my life in a wheelchair expecting an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged. But I am also a voice for encouraging people, especially those in their later years, to not wait for a wake up call to get moving and pay attention to wellness. I have a Resources for Well-Being page on my website. On my News and Events page, you'll find inspiring conversations on podcasts and where you can find my remarkable journey of transformation. 

I'm savoring every run and workout when I can wear a tank top or t-shirt and shorts, embracing the sweat that comes with summer running, especially after the winter we had. Every day is a celebration of life for me that is magnified when I get to celebrate a day like Global Wellness Day.

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My Trilogy of Transformation chronicles my journey from having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards to a woman transformed through the sport of running. Take a journey into a world of healing, hope and possibilities with my 7 books, available on Amazon. My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reading for Every Runner. You will be inspired by my strength, courage, resilience, determination and overcoming the inevitable setbacks that come with a journey to health and wellness. 

What if the key to overcoming life's greatest challenges lies in the melodies that resonate with our souls? Join us in this heartfelt episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast, where hosts Lynn Hoffman and Buzz Knight dive deep into the transformative power of music with our inaugural contest winner, Mary McManus. Mary’s journey is a testament to the healing power of music, as she shares her inspiring story of resilience after contracting paralytic polio at a young age and navigating a tumultuous family environment. Listen to the episode by following this link.

Through her narrative, Mary McManus reveals how music became her sanctuary. A pivotal moment in her life came when her cousin, a Broadway producer, introduced her to the world of musical theater—a vibrant escape that ignited her passion and brought her immense joy. This episode explores the profound connection between music and emotional healing, showcasing how Mary McManus found solace in melodies during her toughest times and how they helped her forge connections with others

Listeners will be moved by Mary’s reflections on the influence of her high school music teacher and the supportive community she discovered in orchestral music. These experiences highlight the essence of music as therapy, illustrating its role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience. Mary’s journey culminates in her remarkable achievement of running the Boston Marathon, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the impact of music in her life.

Throughout this episode, we delve into the broader themes of music and mental health, exploring how independent musicians can harness their art to inspire and uplift. Mary’s story is not just about personal struggles; it’s a celebration of the healing power of music and its ability to connect us all. From emotional healing through music to the stories of musicians who have shaped our lives, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking inspiration.

 Join us as we uncover the magic of music and its role in personal stories of triumph. Whether you’re a fan of the music history podcast genre or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast promises to resonate deeply. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of finding your voice and the transformative nature of music in navigating life's adversities. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey with Mary McManus, where we celebrate the stories that remind us all of the profound impact music has on our lives.

 Last year I was the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.

 

Sweat and Rain on The Road to Hyannis 10K

 

Last week's theme for training runs on the road to the Hyannis Marathon Weekend 10K was signs. Coincidentally, on Tuesday evening, we were dining al fresco in our yard. We had finished our delicious BBQ and were savoring the summer evening, when my gaze was drawn upward. There had been no rain yet there it was:

It was such a spectacular sight that I asked Tom to please capture it with his iPhone. I thought to myself, "Well that makes sign number 4 for the week." I feel the gifts from the Divine's presence as I train for my next event.

This week's theme is cleansing. It was hot and humid on Saturday and Monday; for Thursday's run we had pouring rain. As George Sheehan said, "Sweat cleanses from the inside. It comes from places a shower will never reach." I was sweating so much after Saturday's 4 miler that I could not even reapply sunblock. It was wonderful to sit on the beach and enjoy a bit of a sea breeze while Tom and I refueled with peanut butter sandwiches, pretzels and sparkling water. My soul always settles by the sea. We expressed gratitude for the blessings in our lives; that we have been gifted with the sport of running for the past 17 years. Tom had been a runner in his younger days but stopped once we had twins. At first he didn't really believe me when I said that I was going to run the 2009 Boston Marathon despite never having run a day in my life and still wearing a toe-up leg brace but he humored me. Once he realized I was serious and determined, he was totally on board to support my mission.

Tom was tired on Monday morning and had a full week of work ahead. There was also a heat advisory but I got up when our alarm went off at 6:00 to get in my miles. I am delighted that I bought new singlets this year in honor of my new training cycle. Brooks had a sale. 
             

The "Run Happy" singlet was the perfect choice for Monday's run. In retrospect, it would have been smarter to adjust my pace. I ended up with a negative split on my last mile. Sweat poured from every pore and continued to pour once I got home. Although I felt a bit nauseous, I felt stress had melted away. I was refreshed and ready to start a new day and a new week. Thank goodness for air conditioning!

 

I lay in bed during the early hours of Thursday morning having awakened to bolts of lightning and thunder claps. "Oh no," I thought to myself. It's our early morning run day and I am in a serious training cycle. I meditated and must have fallen back to sleep since I was awakened by the alarm at 6:00am. No signs of lightning or thunder. Check the weather app. Only rain forecast for the entire day. It's a go!

 

As a child who contracted paralytic polio at the age of 5, wore a full metal leg brace until I was 7, was in physical therapy until 13 and just to intensify the challenge, experienced trauma in my home life, I never knew the unbridled joy of being able to run free in the rain, splashing in puddles getting muddy and messy. After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006, I went back into a toe-up leg brace, used a cane and at times a wheelchair for mobility. I was told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged. In February of 2007, I got still and asked for Divine Guidance only to receive the answer to my prayer as discovering the gift of poetry in my soul. My pen became my Divining rod for healing. Early on in this wild and wonderful healing journey I had a dream about coming out of my leg brace and dancing in the rain barefoot and free like Gene Kelly did in Singing in the Rain (only he wasn't barefoot). The next morning I wrote the poem, "Come Out and Play" that is on one of the photo's from today's run at the beginning of the post. Whenever I run in the rain, I reflect on that magical moment in my journey. As Carl Jung said, "The unconscious prepares the way for the future."

 

Tom and I had a joyful run as rain soaked us to the skin. We sidestepped puddles when we could; when we had to go straight through them we laughed. I once read a quote that said, "Running in the rain makes me feel as though I can handle the whole world." Another great running in the rain quote is "Running in the rain. Exercise...Therapy... and a Shower all at the same time."

 

There was majesty and beauty that surrounded us with lush green trees, tall grass and the smell that is unique to a rainy day in Boston in summer.  When we got home dripping wet, we peeled off our jackets and hung them in the shower. It was a bit challenging to get out of my sports bra as I was literally soaked to the skin but channeled my inner Houdini. Tom and I smiled as we refueled with breakfast that always tastes so delicious after a run. We marveled at how I am celebrating 18 and a half years of healing and how, in our 70's we are training for a 10K, living life to the full, feeling joy and gratitude fill our hearts and souls.

Another week of training in the books on the road to Hyannis. I am enjoying reflecting on the week's training as much as I am doing the training runs and strength training workouts. Tom and I do our strength training on Tuesday mornings before breakfast. We were doing them during his lunch hour but really enjoy doing workouts and runs before breakfast. What a great way to kick start the day. 

 

I am cleansed, refreshed and renewed after the sweat and rain on this week's training runs, looking forward to a well-deserved rest day tomorrow.

 

"Anyone who thinks that sunshine is pure happiness has never run in the rain." ~Unknown

 

 In health and wellness - Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

I was recently the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

My books share a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities; what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary and are available on Bookshop  My 6th book, "Into the Light:Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic" and my 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" are selections of the WBZ News Radio Book Club. "Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is also a selection Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reads for Every Runner. Visit my Author Page on Amazon for rave reviews.

 

Sweat Cleanses From the Inside Out

 

Tom had to work this weekend on a special project that required ongoing attention throughout the weekend. I am so grateful he has this wonderful job that he enjoys especially as a 71 year old. Two years ago at this time we were wondering what was going to happen after Tom took his leap of faith leaving behind his 7 year Boston College career as a Systems Administrator. Would he get a 'retirement' job or would he continue to work in technology? We weren't sure but we were sure that the job at BC was no longer fulfilling and the stress was taking a toll on his health. 

We had to get up extra early on Saturday to ensure that Tom would be back home in plenty of time to monitor the system he was upgrading. It was a win/win since summer decided to linger well into September this year. The heat and humidity was palpable even at 7:30 in the morning! 

We had another 5 miles on tap on the road to the Bermuda Triangle Challenge 10K. As sweat poured, I made sure to hydrate and to also be mindful of my nutrition. I thought that we would have to dial back our pace but I kept a pace consistent with what we have been doing in recent weeks.

Ruth Anne continues to heal from an infection making her way back to wellness. We know that it can take time for med changes and for the body's natural ability to heal to take effect. I know that we can't rush the healing process although at times it seems to be painfully slow for everyone especially Ruth Anne.

Tom and I savor our training time together. We are unplugged and out in nature which nourishes our mind, body and soul. We always take time to soak in the beautiful surroundings of the Reservoir. We paused as we saw a solo goose serenely swimming on the near still water. We watched it turn around with such ease and grace; a reminder that we need to be in the flow accepting all that is right now going with the current of life.

We were grateful for the cloud cover for most of our run. When the sun came out, the heat and humidity really kicked in but fortunately we had only a mile left to run. Our emotions while Ruth Anne finds her healing path were getting wrung out with the sweat. Tom and I used Louise Hay's affirmation while we got in our miles: All is well. Everything is working out for my highest good. Only good can come out of this. I am safe. Louise recommends using it to clear away worries during a challenging situation to allow the Universe to create the solution. We shifted our attention to how Ruth Anne was when her mental status cleared and how Ruth Anne is when she is well saying a prayer "May Ruth Anne be happy. May Ruth Anne be safe. May Ruth Anne be well. May Ruth Anne be at ease!" It's amazing how troubles and worries are released out on a run in nature while sweat pours.

On our way home we were blessed to see two dear neighbors who hold Ruth Anne close in their hearts and prayers. We paused our Garmins to take time to chat with them and soak up their love and support.

One of the things I love about a sultry end of summer sweaty run is to feel the sweat continuing to pour even after the run has ended. George Sheehan has so many incredibly wise quotes about life and running. It's true what he said about sweat. Sweat cleanses from the inside out in a way no shower possibly can!

Another 5 miles deposited in the Bank of Bermuda. Let the excitement build about being a part of Race Weekend. I am always in awe of how the Universe speaks to me and sends me messages and signs. I 'just happened' to see on Instagram that the Grotto Bay, the property where we planned to stay was doing extensive renovations that would not be completed until Spring of 2024. I called to find out that the renovations would affect food service. We planned to have our pre-race breakfast at 6:30 at their Coffee Shop which is now closed. Breakfast wouldn't be served until 7:30 and they were not sure where they were going to serve breakfast. 

We decided to pivot and stay just for race weekend instead of the week long stay at Grotto Bay. We easily changed our flights. We are going to stay at the host hotel in Hamilton at the Hamilton Princess Hotel through Marathon Tours. They have a great VIP Package that is going to thoroughly enhance our Race Weekend experience and make Bermuda Race Weekend a true race-cation! Everything always works out for better than the best!

From my heart to yours
In health and wellness,
Mary 

Visit my ***NEW*** website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

Thank you to Mike Reilly for featuring my story on Stories From the Finish Line Sponsored by CURAD Performance Series to inspire others.

Be sure to subscribe to the On The Runs podcast for stories of individuals who are fierce and determined to overcome challenges, set goals and crush them. Here is the link to my Episode 56.

Be sure to subscribe to their new YouTube Channel to enhance your podcast listening experience!

Be sure to download and subscribe to the AdaptX podcast. Here's the link to my wonderful conversation with host Brendan Aylward sharing my journey of transformation and healing in the wake of polio, Post-Polio syndrome and trauma.

Be sure to also subscribe to their YouTube channel