Running and anxiety.

anx·i·e·ty  

/aNGˈzī-itē/

Noun A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome. Desire to do something, typically accompanied by unease.

Synonyms worry – concern – care – uneasiness – trouble – disquiet

Uncertainty.

Uncertainty is a fact of life.

It is something that we all have to deal with.

Some are better at handling it than others.

Right?

Right.

Uncertainty can cause anxiety. It does for me, anyway.

I battled with anxiety in my twenties, but ever since I started running it has been pretty much under control.

This is one of the reasons I run.

Running centers me. It relieves stress and makes me happy.

As hippy-dippy as it sounds, it’s the truth.

I decided to do some research on the effects of running on someone with anxiety.

Here is what I found…

Your physical energy contributes to anxiety in a host of ways:

• Unused energy can become anxiety and actually create anxious thoughts.
• Unused muscles may become tense and cause more anxiety symptoms.

There is a high correlation between those that don’t exercise and those that experience anxiety. In addition, beyond the health components of jogging and exercise, there are additional benefits as well. These include:

Endorphins – During exercise the body releases neurotransmitters that are designed to make exercise easier and less painful, like endorphins. Endorphins also play a significant role in relaxation. By exercising, your mind and body will have a much easier time relaxing.

Cortisol – Cortisol is a hormone released during times of stress, and it’s responsible for many of the symptoms associated with anxiety. Running burns away excess cortisol, causing fewer anxiety symptoms and less long term damage from cortisol release.

Overall Health – Running also improves every component of overall health. It teaches your heart and lungs to breathe more efficiently. It regulates hormones and improves muscle strength. It keeps your body a type of health that prevents excess stress.

Some studies have shown that regular running may be as powerful or more powerful than some of the world’s most well-known anxiety medications, all without any side effects.

Feeling anxious?

Lace up your sneakers and go for a run.

Your body will thank you!

-RatherBeRunnin’