How can running be your first step towards a better mental health

 Running is described as one of the most accessible form of physical workout as it requires no prior training, no equipment and no overwhelming fees. Most of us start running because of the physical benefits it has unaware of the positive impact it has on our mental health.

 Researchers say that running is the most useful exercise for improving mental health, emotional wellbeing and reduce stress and anxiety level.

                       

Let’s dive deep into how running can be your unpaid therapist;

•  RUNNING AS A STRESS BUSTER

With the glorification of hustle culture in the past few years the youth is stressed almost every hour of the day which has led to an increase in the level of stress hormone Cortisol. Running daily can help reduce the concentration of this hormone in our bodies. Simultaneously it also helps in release of endorphins – the feel-good hormone which promotes a better emotional wellbeing

 

• RUNNING AS AN ANTIDEPRESSANT

When you run the flow of blood to the brain is increased and specifically to the part of your brain that responds to anxiety. This rush of blood leads to better reaction under anxious situations. Studies have shown that regular running has same effect as medications in relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

                             

 

•  RUNNING AS A FORM OF MEDITATION

Running is thought to be a no brainer thing but it can be a very powerful form of mindful activity. Running while being aware of your surroundings, your body movements, your breathing is a vague definition of mindful running. This form of running act as a deeper meditation and can help you calm your senses

                         

• RUNNING AS A CURE TO LONELINESS

Going out for run every day will help you feel a sense of belongingness to the community. When you go out for a run you interact with the surroundings, feel the fresh air, experience the nature, see fellow runners which in turn makes you feel like you are not alone having a positive impact on your brain.
                     

 

•  RUNNING AS A REMEDY FOR MENTAL CONFUSION

Running increases, the oxygen level to prefrontal cortex of brain which is responsible for cognitive functions. This consequently increases the attention span, learning abilities and mental clarity which reduces the feeling of helplessness and brain fog.

                                      

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• RUNNING AS A CATALYST FOR SLEEP

Even one run can change your brain chemistry and can help you set a normal sleep schedule. Most of the people suffering from depression also suffer from insomnia. The hormones released in body during and after running encourages deep sleep improving your mental health.

                               

• RUNNING AS AN AID FOR PROBLEM SOLVING

With the increase in pressure of being the best in the crowd our brain sometimes loses its calm to work under this pressure. Running can help control this stress and help you deal better with existing problem.  It increases norepinephrine, a chemical that helps Moderate brain’s response under pressure and stressful situations.

                          

 

 

• RUNNING AS A SLEF ESTEEM BOOSTER

Researchers have found that regular running leads to better perceptions of one’s own fitness as well as better body image. Running gives, you that sense of goal completion which helps your brain to believe in your strengths and capabilities.

                            

• RUNNING AS A HEALTHY DRUG

After your run a biochemical substance endocannabinoid is released in your body which through the bloodstream moves to the brain. This naturally produced chemical is very much similar to cannabis. This provides short term feeling of reduced stress and calm like cannabis. So why get high when you can get runners high

CONCLUSION
Running really has that capability to help you heal from inside but make sure to get proper rest between your runs, eat a balanced diet and check your water intake. If you are new to running and your body is not habitual of this much exertion or you are not taking proper rest you may experience soreness in your muscles. A foam roller can greatly help you in getting rid of sore muscles and loosen up the tension. Running really can do wonders for your mental health. So, start running because you are just one run away from a better you.