Embracing the Outdoors: How Running Transformed Henrietta’s Life
The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run, on Sunday 6 October, is set to be the biggest run weekend ever. Here, inspiring runners with a personal cause talk about their reasons for running as part of the Great Scottish Run ‘Power of Running’ series.
Henrietta Kurusa, known to her friends as Heni, has struggled with her mental health. During the lockdown, like many others, in an effort to take better care of herself, she began walking, exploring the outdoors around her home in Glasgow, Scotland. This simple act of walking evolved into a deep love for hiking, especially in the Scottish Highlands. Heni has since walked the West Highland Way twice and tackled numerous other trails, hills, and even a few Munros.
Although running had never been a part of Heni’s life, her journey through hiking sparked a desire to push her limits further. Initially, she struggled to complete the Couch to 5K program, but with perseverance, she began to jog during her training walks. This gradually led to more consistent running, and two years ago, Heni participated in her first 10K event. The experience was life-changing, helping her discover resilience and willpower she never knew she had.
Running has not only transformed Heni physically but has also provided her with mental strength, Heni says “being outdoors has completely changed me both mentally and physically and let me discover resilience and willpower I didn’t know I had”. It has become a crucial tool in managing her mental health, offering a space for relaxation, unwinding, and personal growth.
This year, Heni is taking on her biggest challenge yet: a trek to Everest Base Camp in Nepal. Taking part in the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run 10km is an essential part of her training preparation. Additionally, she’s using her passion for the outdoors to support Venture Scotland, a charity that empowers young adults facing challenges through outdoor development programs.
With the weekend expected to sell out, don’t miss out on being a part of Scotland’s Greatest. Glasgow, gaun yersel!, and click here to sign up today.
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