Monday, March 23, 2009

Spring fever....


Spring time makes me feet itch to run outside! When I am running daily I feel the healthiest. I write about the health benefits of running sometimes But I think some of the greatest benefits of running are what it does to the way you feel....

Here are some benefits to motivate us!

1. Run when you are feeling angry or frustrated to burn off the extra energy. Research has shown that nothing relieves stress more than physical exercise.

2. Running increases endorphins which contributes to a general sense of well-being and mood elevation, so running can make you feel better when you are sad.

3. Running is an excellent way to fight anxiety. Naturally inducing and recovering from the adrenaline response allows your body to practice recovering from physical effects of anxiety.

4. If you are feeling lonely or disillusioned with people in general, running on a local trail (like Indy’s Monon Trail, Canal Walk, or Cultural Trail) will expose you to several people enjoying the weather and/or exercising, as well as dogs and kids, and present many opportunities to enjoy and share a smile.

5. Running gives you an opportunity to experience freedom and can be the perfect escape from stressors, being inside all day, or the daily grind when you are feeling trapped.

6. You can increase your self-esteem and feel empowered by running by accomplishing goals, experiencing what your body can do, and re-defining yourself.

7. Running also gives you an opportunity to escape into your own world, tune out everything else with your iPod, refocus, and be refreshed. You may need a break from stressors or people or just to allow your brain to rest.

so go for a jog today, even if it is ten minutes. You will feel energized and happy!

1 comment:

RonElaine said...

mmmm...I miss running! My most favorite thing about hitting the pavement is the clarity it gives me. It seems as though I can sort through any and all problems while I'm out with myself. When I get home, it's as if my whole life has sorted itself out and I can really focus on the things that matter most.

Soon, soon, we will be able to enjoy our runs!