5 Mental Health Benefits of Running

Wow, what a crazy last few weeks. Here in Massachusetts, we are on day 18 of being in our homes. School is closed until May 4th, and I am working at home through mid-April. Though, I suspect this will be extended. As much as I like being home, I love to travel. If you a regular visitor to my blog, you know I love adventure and being able to go out and about. Staying confined to our home, not being able to socialize and see family and friends is hard. In times like these, I am so grateful that I am a runner. I enjoy going out and moving my body. It has been a lifesaver over the last couple of weeks. It was also a lifesaver as I watched my mom slip away six years ago. Running or any form of exercise, for that matter, has a tremendous impact on our mental health. I thought this would be the perfect time to discuss the five mental health benefits of running.

1) Lowers Stress

Running decreases anxiety and rids of brains of negative thoughts. Running or exercise in general, creases the body’s concentration of norepinephrine, a chemical that moderates the brain’s response to stress.

2) Helps with the Depression

Exercise produces endorphins and is a natural anti-depressant. There is a saying “Wow, I regret that run/workout.- Said No One Ever. Is this a cure for depression? NO! However, it can help. Want an extra boost? Go out and run on a sunny day. The shot of vitamin D will also help with depression.

3) Improves Sleep

Running helps regulate our circadian rhythms. It increases the amount of time spent in deep sleep. Deep sleep, should make up 20% of our sleep a night. Deep sleep restores the body physically and also helps boost immunity. Also, running regularly manages stress levels, which can impede our ability to get to sleep and have a restful night’s sleep.

4) Increases Energy Levels

Have you ever noticed the more we sit around, the more sluggish we become? The opposite is true; the more we move, the more energy we have throughout the day. So if you can, start your day off with a run or whatever form of exercise that gets you moving.

5) Helps with Self-Esteem

Running has done wonders for my self-esteem. It has shown me what my body and mind are capable of, especially during the hard times. By setting goals, accomplishing said goals, and conquering obstacles in the way of these goals builds confidence. Confidence builds our self-esteem, and we feel great about ourselves.

During this challenging time, I urge you all to take some time and move. If running is not your thing, that is okay. Take a walk, do some yoga or stream an exercise video from your computer. Whatever you do, have fun and breathe. This too shall pass.

Be safe my friends.