5 Reasons Why I Love Running
Or How Running Can Boost Your Mood, Reduce Stress, and Improve Overall Well-Being.
Who would have thought that simply moving your legs a bit faster than usual could have such a significant impact on your life?
I certainly didn’t. Until I tried.
Here are five ways in which running has impacted my life.
1. Effort Removes Stress
Running can be tough. It requires pushing through fatigue, moving your legs when they feel heavy, dealing with breathlessness, inclement weather conditions, procrastination, and occasional pain.
However, the challenge of running can also serve as a powerful distraction from anxious thoughts. It forces you to focus on the current effort, leaving worries and anxieties behind. Combine that with the fresh air and rhythm of your feet hitting the ground, and you have the perfect recipe to help you calm down.
2. Silence Helps Thinking
Running allows you to literally “run away” from the distractions of day-to-day life. You’re left alone with your thoughts, which is a luxury in our overstimulated lives.
This state has a magical effect on our brains — ideas start flowing suddenly and effortlessly, allowing you to find creative solutions to impossible problems.
Have you ever wondered why so many great ideas come to you in the shower? Now imagine extending that 5-minute shower to a 2-hour run.
3. Effort Builds Fitness
Getting better at running also improves the rest of your life.
It makes you feel better about your body, as you discover it can do things you haven’t imagined.
You’re less tired, with boosted endurance and overall fitness. You can walk and hike longer.
4. Long Runs are Adventures
Running is also full of adventures. You’re exploring different seasons and weather conditions, and witnessing how the same trail transforms into an entirely fresh experience, sometimes barely recognizable.
Running in the misty fog, with its thick white covering enveloping the surroundings, feels like stepping into a mystical world.
There’s something truly magical about covering long distances, as you gradually extend your limits, explore the different areas of a city or forest, and uncover new landmarks along the trail.
5. Races are Magical
While regular runs are nice and all, nothing beats the excitement of a race.
I still remember the incredible experience of participating in the Philadelphia Marathon. It was an early morning in late November, and the streets were dark and silent as we left the hotel. Dozens of yellow buses were lined up on the large street, ready to transport us to the race. I remember the contrast between the cold winter outside and the bus’ warmth.
It was a fantastic experience to run on wide street roads. Enjoying incredible views of the city and the atmosphere created by thousands of runners and supporters on all sides of the roads.
That’s it. I hope these few points will increase your motivation to go for a run tomorrow. Or even right now!
Also, if you’re interested in planning your runs, week by week, check out my free Android app.
