Running Is Good To Your Mental Health
Let me give you one "secret:" Running is good to your mental health.
"Running the marathon gave me an inner strength that changed my life," says Henley Gibble, head of a running club in the U.S. "Whether it's fast or slow. whether you walk some of it or not, just
finishing can have a profound effect on your confidence and
self-esteem," adds Henley.
Scientists, doctors, and runners describe specific reasons why running is good to your mental health.
Here are some of them:
* Running gives a euphoric feeling, a "runner's high," that benefits runners psychologically and emotionally;
* Running releases endorphins that act as stimulant to emotional parts of the brain while running, boosting stronger feelings of euphoria;
* Runners report experiencing being totally relaxed, happy, energetic, and satisfied with themselves;
* Running releases a chemical called serotonin, which is a natural mood lifter that addresses negative energies associated with depression, lethargy, or stress;
* Running improves your overall appearance and fitness level, which builds confidence;
* Running faciltates ability to make new circles of friends and support;
* Runners who network and increase their social contacts receive greater mental health benefits than those who run independently;
Indeed, while experiencing the runner's high is one of the best ways to feel
happy and relaxed, running provides a number of general mental health benefits
that can seep into your everyday life.
Run and get well!
Comments