Running stands as one of the forms of exercise globally with a significant following.
In 2017 the United States alone boasted around 47 million individuals regularly participating in running activities.
So what drives us to run?
While the physical advantages of running are widely acknowledged – like enhancing fitness, improving indicators and aiding in weight management – there’s also a focus on its impact on mental health.
How does running contribute to our well being alongside its benefits?
As discussions surrounding health grow more common and accepted research in this area has expanded, allowing for exploration, into how running can positively influence our mental state. By strapping on your running shoes and hitting the road, track or field you may experience benefits that extend beyond fitness.
This article will delve into the ways that running can enhance your health by examining studies and various approaches to help you make the most of your runs – promoting a healthier mindset.
Contents ↑A few ways that engaging in running can positively impact your well being
- Lessening symptoms of depression
- Enhancing resilience to stress
- Boosting relaxation abilities
- Decreasing the likelihood of developing anxiety disorders
- Encouraging a positive mood state through increased dopamine levels
Can running make you more joyful?
We wholeheartedly believe so. Mere belief isn’t sufficient. Fortunately Dr. Brendon Stubbs, a researcher from Kings College London conducted a study involving three athletes and six regular athletes.
Each participant wore a headset. Their baseline scores were measured before engaging in 20 minute exercise sessions.
The outcomes were remarkable:
- An 18% improvement in relaxation capacity
- A 28% decrease in decision-making tendencies
- A 29% rise in stress resilience
Dr. Brendon Stubbss research underscores the link between fitness and mental wellness. Interestingly the mental health advantages observed among participants surpassed those seen in athletes.
Additionally researchers at Lowa State University discovered that thirty minutes of exercise could potentially alleviate anxiety symptoms for, up to seventy five minutes workout.
In conclusion it seems plausible that incorporating running into your routine could contribute to increased happiness.
Contents ↑Can running help alleviate anxiety?
Many have believed in a connection, between health and mental well being and a large study in Sweden has further supported this idea.
The study observed 400,000 individuals over 21 years. Found a notable decrease in the risk of developing anxiety disorders among those who embraced an active lifestyle.
While running can indeed reduce anxiety there are some points to keep in mind.
Firstly the study focused on exercise suggesting that simply running on a treadmill indoors may not yield the benefits.
Secondly participants engaging in low intensity exercises like jogging showed a reduction in anxiety risk compared to those doing intense activities like sprinting.
Lastly these positive outcomes were not immediate. The study emphasized the importance of term physical activity, for reaping benefits rather than quick fixes.
It’s crucial to monitor your running routines intensity level and ensure you’re not overexerting yourself during each session. A recent research study discovered that engaging in exercise or pushing yourself harder during training sessions can have an impact, on your mood the following day.
Contents ↑What does mindful running entail?
Mindful running, also known as meditation while running can have varying meanings for individuals. Generally involves directing our thoughts away, from distractions and daily life to focus on being fully present and aware of our breathing and body.
Mindful running is intended to be a zen experience that helps relax the mind by connecting it harmoniously with the body.
A study that explored the combination of meditation and aerobic exercise showed improved outcomes with participants reporting reduced symptoms and repetitive thinking patterns.
Some people achieve running by focusing on the rhythm of their footsteps hitting the ground while others may benefit from using audio or smartphone apps to guide them through their workout.
Time you go for a run consider wearing headphones (at a volume) and listening to guided meditations. You might discover that your run feels more effortless and enjoyable as you challenge your mind to adopt a perspective.
Some of the guided running apps we enjoy using are:
- Calm
- Headspace
Boundaries to Consider When Running for Your Mental Well being
Running doesn’t come with a one size fits all solution and while research highlights the link, between physical activity and mental health its crucial to recognize that peoples responses to exercise can differ significantly. Therefore if you seek ways to enhance your well being seeking advice, from an expert is an initial move.
