By: Ana Margarita Olar | Vigorbuddy.com
Running has all the physical benefits. A healthy heart, healthy lungs, and even healthy skin are some of the benefits. But there’s no doubt that it can also contribute to the mental well-being as well.
There’s something about the cool wind on your face, the rhythm of the feet, and the looking straight and beyond.
Here are some reasons why running can also boost your mental health:
IT’S THE BEST WAY TO CLEAR YOUR HEAD
There are many things that occupy our mind. It can vary from monthly bills, everyday expenditures, responsibilities, deadlines, and conflicts. All these can harm our system if we let these things lose our cool and sense of harmony.
Running is the best way to clear our head of these worries. Along with other forms of exercise, it is a proven way to reduce stress and anxiety.
IT ENCOURAGES SOCIAL INTERACTION
Another way to get rid of the negative thought and vibes is the socialization brought about by running. When running, you get to see people, smile at them, or have a little chat with them.
Even for a natural loner, it pays to have someone you can smile at, or greet at some time. Also, organized running groups can provide social support and encouragement for those who needed it.
IT PROVIDES PHYSICAL AND MENTAL CHALLENGE
Our body and brains become lazy and stagnant if we just let it stuck in a sedentary routine. Running can also exercise your mental health because you are challenged.
Every time you are pushed out of your comfort zone, your brain also works to get along with the challenge. It creates some sort of mantra: never give up on life’s challenges.
IT TEACHES US TO LOOK AHEAD
When running, you are focused on a focal point or the finish line. It affects our unconscious mind to do the same as well. In running, you don’t have time to focus on what your running mate has achieved. It makes you focus your energy on completing and finishing your task.
IMPROVES CONFIDENCE
Another factor for our mental health is the level of our confidence. When we are running, we are one with the wind; we are one with the crowd. Yet, we have our own unique style. We run at our own phase. There is no focus but the finish line.
Do you have a stressful life? Don’t walk to that fridge. Ditch that stress shopping. Get into your running shoes and start losing all your worries in running.