When people think of running, they often think of the physiological aspect of the sport (which will be discussed in a blog post in the near future). However, today we are going to be looking at the other side of the coin, the psychological aspects of the sport.

 Running affects mental health in the short term and the long term. In the short term, we can often experience the popular “runners high”. Runners high refers to the release of endorphins in the bloodstream. It is this injection of endorphins that gives you the overall feeling of joy upon running a new personal best or crossing the finish line.

 Reduction in Stress

Recent studies have shown that the release of endocannabinoids is what gives us that relaxed and satisfied feeling that we experience more often after running. This is because endocannabinoids are naturally produced and can pass from the bloodstream to the brain’s receptors more easily giving us that natural “high/relaxed” sensation.

 Reduction in Anxiety and Depression

Instead of just prescribing drugs to patients with mental health illnesses, more and more rehabilitation programs are including bouts of running due to its power to reduce anxiety and depression. When we run, blood circulation increases to the working muscles, including the brain! The part of the brain which is responsible for mood also receives this increase in blood flow and as a result, you are more likely to see an improvement in response to stressful situations.

 Improvements in Sleep

As previously mentioned, running has been found to release endocannabinoids which naturally give us a relaxed feeling. When we are relaxed, we sleep better. Not just for longer because our body needs the increased rest but actually deeper. Meaning that you have more REM sleep cycles.  

 Reduced feelings of Isolation

A major benefit to running is the family-feeling community that comes with it. From a personal standpoint, the majority of my best friends I have met have come as a result of running, most of them aren’t even runners themselves! You really get to know someone when you share a couple of miles with them each week. Even if you run on your own, the fact that you are running outside and getting some fresh air has been found to also have the same benefit and reduce feelings of isolation.

I hope you enjoyed learning more about the “other side of the coin”. If you are interested in joining a family of runners then please do not hesitate to get in touch, I would love to hear from you

 Take Care

*If you are suffering from mental health issues, please do not bottle it up. Reach out, speak to someone. My inbox is always open if you need someone to talk to. If you want more professional advice, see some of the resources below

Mind Charity: https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool/

Hub of Hope: https://hubofhope.co.uk/

Centre for Mental Health: https://www.centreformentalhealth.org.uk/helplines-and-crisis-contacts