Running & Mental Health: How The Two Work Together

Running is a form of physical exercise that has long been associated with physical health benefits such as weight loss, improved cardiovascular function, and reduced risk of chronic diseases. However, recent research has also shown that running can have a positive impact on mental health. In this article, we will explore the ways in which running and mental health complement each other and why it is a good idea to incorporate it into your mental health routine.

The Benefits of Running for Mental Health:

Running has been found to be an effective form of exercise for improving mental health. Research has shown that running can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, and improve overall mood. 

This is because running releases endorphins, which are the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, and can help reduce stress hormones such as cortisol.

It has also been shown to improve sleep quality, which can have a positive impact on mental health. Getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining good, and running can help regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

There is plenty of research on the connection between running and the brain such as below:

Finally, running can improve self-esteem and confidence, which can have a positive impact on your mental. Running can provide a sense of accomplishment and help individuals set and achieve goals, which can help build self-esteem and confidence.

The best part about running is that all you need to get started is to find the right pair of running shoes for yourself.

The Mental Health Benefits of Running Outdoors:

While running indoors on a treadmill can also provide physical and mental health benefits, running outdoors can be especially beneficial for mental health. 

Being outdoors in nature has been found to have a calming effect on the mind, and can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Running outdoors can also provide a sense of community and connection with others. Joining a running group or participating in a local race can provide opportunities to meet new people and build social relationships, which can have a positive impact on mental health.

Incorporating Running into Your Mental Health Routine:

If you are looking to incorporate running into your mental health routine, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it is essential to set realistic goals and start slowly. 

If you are new to running, start with short distances and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your runs. This can help prevent injury and make running more enjoyable.

It is also important to listen to your body and adjust your running routine accordingly. If you are feeling tired or run down, take a rest day or reduce the intensity of your run. 

It is also important to fuel your body properly with a balanced diet and stay hydrated to help prevent injury and improve overall physical and mental health.

Finally, it can be helpful to track your progress and set new goals. Using a running app or fitness tracker can help you track your progress and set new goals, which can provide a sense of accomplishment and help build self-esteem and confidence.

Many people tend to use GPS watches to track their progress but even something as simple as your Apple Health app or Strava can help get you started.

Conclusion:

Incorporating running into your mental health routine can be a simple and effective way to improve well-being. By setting realistic goals, listening to your body, and tracking your progress, you can enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of running. 

If you are new to running, start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your runs. Remember to fuel your body properly with a balanced diet and stay hydrated to help prevent injury and improve overall physical and mental health.
In conclusion, running is an excellent way to improve physical health. Its mental health benefits, including reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, improved sleep quality, and increased self-esteem and confidence, make it an ideal form of exercise for many people that are dealing with the challenges of mental health.