August 01, 2024
Running
By MoRunning
Running: The Mental Health Boost You Need
We see it everywhere—people boasting about their runner's high. But what exactly is it? It's not just about conquering steep hills (though kudos if you do!); it’s the mental health boost we get after ticking off a run.
We have teamed up with Runna, the #1 rated running coaching app. New users get their first 2 weeks free when you sign up with code “MORUNNER” or via this link https://join.runna.com/lKmc/partnerrefer?deep_link_sub1=MORUNNER
The Feel-Good Post-Run Feeling
We’ve all experienced that feel-good sensation post-run. That’s our brain releasing neurotransmitters called endorphins. These trigger a short burst of euphoria, known as a 'runner's high,' that you feel when you finish. Elevated heart rates and muscle strains? They're part of the package deal for a brighter mood.
Why We Run for Mental Health
Whether you’ve just caught the running bug or you’ve been catching those KMs for years, here’s why running is a great way to boost your mental health:
Stress Relief
Running can act as a natural stress reliever. Engaging in physical activity like running releases endorphins, reducing your perception of pain and triggering positive feelings throughout your body. This helps you unwind and clear your mind after a long day.
Mood Enhancement
The rhythmic motion of running, combined with the release of endorphins, creates a sense of euphoria or "runner's high." This natural mood boost can help combat feelings of sadness or low mood, lasting for hours after a run.
Cognitive Benefits
Running isn’t just beneficial for your body; it’s great for your brain. Aerobic exercise, such as running, can improve cognitive function and brain health. Regular running has been linked to improved memory, increased focus, and sharper mental acuity.
Mental Toughness
Regular running helps you develop resilience and cope more effectively with stress. Pushing yourself physically during a run teaches you to push through discomfort and overcome obstacles, building mental toughness that carries over into other areas of your life.
Sleep Improvement
Quality sleep is essential for mental health, and running can help you achieve it. Regular exercise improves sleep quality and duration, helping you fall asleep more quickly, experience deeper sleep cycles, and wake up feeling more refreshed.
Social Connection
Running can also be a social activity, providing opportunities for connection and camaraderie. Joining a running group, participating in races, or hitting a parkrun with friends can reduce feelings of loneliness and increase feelings of belonging and support.
Kickstart Your Mental Health Running Journey
If you're new to running, getting started is easier than you might think. Begin with short, manageable walk/runs and gradually increase your distance and intensity as your fitness improves. Invest in a good pair of running shoes, find routes that inspire you, and listen to your body to avoid injury. Consistency is key; start by developing a routine around your running, aiming for three or more times per week. Once you become consistent, you’ll begin to feel the physical and mental benefits that running can bring.
Happy running, MoRunners! Keep lacing up those shoes and hitting the pavement for a healthier, happier you.
Remember you can get your first 2 weeks free when you sign up with code “MORUNNER” or via this link https://join.runna.com/lKmc/partnerrefer?deep_link_sub1=MORUNNER
