Did you know that running, in addition to numerous benefits for physical health, also has excellent benefits for your mental health? A lot of mental health experts recommend it as a stress management tool. Studies have shown that running can control stress, and it can increase the level of norepinephrine, a naturally occurring chemical that acts as a stress hormone and helps to ease the brain’s response to stress. 

It has also been found to be a healthy coping mechanism as it helps to calm the mind. The numerous chemicals released in the body, during and after the run, help people that experience anxiety feel less anxious. Running is often an excellent therapy for overall well-being, but especially with mental health issues such as anxiety. Research shows running has been helpful with anxiety and panic attacks.

Studies have also credited running as nature’s “antidepressant” as it helps with boosting a mood. A lot of people run first thing in the morning as it lifts their mood and prepares them for the rest of the day in full force. Do you know that one person smiling on the bus in the morning? They’re probably a morning runner. 

It improves the quality of your sleep and helps you fall asleep more easily. Runners often have higher productivity levels, so running is a great way to boost your productivity. Are you feeling unmotivated? Put on your running shoes and go for a run. Runners also happen to be much happier and more efficient at work. In addition to productivity, running can also boost and increase confidence and positive body image. 

After a while, running can have a lot of positive long-term effects on your mental health. It helps you form a healthy lifestyle as you develop healthier habits which include more exercise, hydration and eating more nutritious food. Running stimulates the growth of fresh grey matter, regions of the brain involved in sensory perception such as memory, decision making and self-control. It also happens to make you smarter, as it improves focus and learning.

The reason I like running is the feeling of freedom you get, especially when running and being surrounded by beautiful landscapes whilst listening to music. It’s like all the stress and worries in the world crease to exist. All that is left is just peace and beauty. It makes me feel better about myself, knowing I got up and went for a run. It also helps me with my productivity, and I can see a lot of health benefits after being a runner for a while.

Running might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s great for your mental health. I know it can be hard in the beginning, but once you get into it, you will end up falling in love, trust me! The best thing about it is that you set your terms and pace on how to go about it. Run a little, long, fast, slow, every day (do get a day off to rest the body), once a week, in the gym, by the river, alone or in a group of friends. It’s all up to you! 

If you’re a beginner that wants to set this running journey to well-being, some great apps could help you to do so, such as Couch to 5K, Endomondo, Strava and Pacer.  There are also a lot of sources of inspiration for runners online, as these Instagram accounts: Iron Will Iron Jill, Jacky Hunt-Broersma, Runny Legs, Chrissy Nich Runs, Crystal Seaver and many more! 

Getting a running buddy is also a great way to maintain a routine. It’s also a great social distance activity that you could do with your friends and/or family. You can explore different places, parks or woods whilst running. If you have trouble finding a running buddy, you could always join one of our City Girl Network cities and find one!

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Written by Silvija Zabcic

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