So ... let's talk about what's going on right now.
I ran about 10.5 miles on Tuesday. I hopped into Central Park and had to get out as soon as I could because I felt so panicked. Midtown was nice because there were so few people. Mask bothered me a little, but not a lot.
Today I did ~3 miles and while Central Park was emptier and not as terrifying, the mask was brutal. And the streets were crowded, so I had to wear it. Probably because it was rainy and therefore humidity, but ... the mask is really starting to get to me.
I'm contemplating taking next week off from running just to give myself a break from running with the mask. I think walking with it is a drop easier, so I'll still get some fresh air. Might also get a Disney mask or an INKnBURN (if I ever actually remember to pay attention to what time it is and don't miss the release) for a change of pace while walking/grocery shopping (which I may be able to avoid for another few weeks thanks to FreshDirect ... the only thing I can't really get from them is meat because it's expensive and cream cheese because they don't have any).
Definitely appreciating barre3 right now because it's something I can do without a mask. Also, I'm loving the community feel of the Livestream classes. They're doing a 15-day challenge starting May 1st and I plan to participate. I think that's gonna be my main form of movement for a while. And I'm perfectly fine with that. If running isn't serving me right now, then it's okay to take a break from it.
... Although I do need to do my runDisney Virtual 5Ks eventually.
Also, something that, as per usual, I can't post where it belongs:
If you want to run in a mask, please do. I'm all for that. If you want to social distance without a mask, that's awesome too. But don't mock or question someone else's decision. Everyone here is capable of making their own informed decision based on their own research, local guidance, and running routes. Some of us encounter a lot of people on our runs and need a mask for those encounters. Others never see anyone out there and don't really have a reason to run with a mask. Most of us are somewhere in the middle. Understand that you don't know someone else's exact circumstances, so their decision will most likely be different than yours. And that's okay. As long as you're practicing safe running, you've made the right choice. Mask or not.