8 ways running benefits your mental health
You may well know about the physical health benefits of running – but did you know that it can work wonders for your mental health too?
Loads of studies have explored the link between mental health and running and discovered that pounding the pavement can have a powerful, positive impact on your mind – from boosting your mood to easing anxiety.
Let’s take a look at eight key benefits of running for your mental health – and how you can run your way to a healthier, happier you!
It boosts your mood
Nothing lifts your spirits like a good run. That’s because running releases endorphins and serotonin – those mood-boosting chemicals that leave you feeling brighter and happier. A quick run can work wonders for clearing your mind and lifting your mood, turning a bad day into a positive one in no time!
It reduces stress
Feeling stressed? Lace up your sneakers, head outdoors, and let the tension melt away. Running lowers cortisol – that pesky stress hormone – helping you leave your worries behind. By the end of your run, you’ll feel more relaxed and ready to take on whatever comes next.
Left unchecked, stress can take a real toll on your body – which is just one of the reasons running can help you live longer!
It eases anxiety
Running gives you a natural dose of calm, helping you manage anxiety. The rhythmic motion and fresh air are the perfect combo to clear your mind. Studies show that aerobic exercise like running can also reduce anxiety sensitivity – that feeling of getting nervous about anxiety symptoms, like a racing heart or heavy breathing. When you run, you experience these sensations in a safe way, which helps your brain learn that they’re not dangerous.
It lifts symptoms of depression
Running has been shown to lift symptoms of depression – and studies have even found running to be just as effective as antidepressants. That’s partly thanks to those mood-boosting endorphins that are released when you run, and partly thanks to the sense of achievement you get with each step.
It boosts your self-esteem
Running is a fantastic way to build confidence and boost self-esteem. Every time you hit a new milestone – whether it’s running a little further, getting a little bit faster, or just sticking to a routine – you’re reminded of what you’re capable of. There’s nothing like reaching these goals, no matter how big or small, to make you feel proud and empowered – feelings you can then carry over into other areas of life!
It increases resilience
Every time you push through a tough run – whether it’s enduring bad weather, conquering a long distance, or simply motivating yourself on a low-energy day when you really cannot be bothered – you’re building mental resilience. You’re proving to yourself that you can take on discomfort, overcome obstacles, and keep going – even when things get hard.
It improves focus
Running is a great way to shake off brain fog and get back to feeling sharp. It pumps more oxygen-rich blood to your brain, which in turn helps to boost your focus and concentration – so you’re ready for anything!
It promotes better sleep
Research shows that exercise like running helps you fall asleep faster and improves the quality of your sleep. Better sleep improves your mood, mental clarity, and focus – so with each run, you’re not just getting a good workout, but setting yourself up for a good night’s rest and a fresh, energized day ahead!
Ready to run your way to better mental health?
No matter your age and fitness level, running is a brilliant way to get healthier and happier. And with FunRun, running becomes an adventure! No strict training plans. No competition. Just running, for fun, in a way that works for you.
Our running adventures are broken into small, achievable steps, so you can enjoy running without any added stress or pressure. We’ll help you celebrate every small win along the way, keeping you motivated and excited for your next adventure!
