BORN TO RUN

Put your best foot forward and take a simple step to reduce anxiety.

Millions of people suffer from generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD. For people with GAD, even a simple task like grocery shopping can be stressful. You never know when unwarranted and uncontrollable fear will surface. Social events can be overwhelming, and many people would rather just stay home. For most of us, avoiding the world is not an option. Prescription medications are not right for everyone, and these days people are searching for a more natural treatment.

Studies show that running can limit the number of symptoms GAD sufferers experience. Running is a sport that most people can try because you start at your individual skill level. In fact, it is not uncommon for newbies to start out walking with short bursts of intermittent running. Another reason this sport is accessible to most people is the low cost. You only need sneakers and a willingness to give it a try.

Here are some benefits you get from running:

It takes your mind off your worries.

When you go for a run, your focus is on your stride, speed, and breath. You can easily get lost in the moment, and that is excellent for people drowning in worry. If you need a fast way to get out of your head, lace up your sneakers and get going.

Running also releases feel-good chemicals like neurotransmitters, endorphins, and endocannabinoids.

Nothing says happy like a fresh batch of endorphins coursing through your system. The short-term benefits of this chemical release is a happier disposition and more energy throughout the day. This natural high is often referred to as a “runner’s high,” and people dealing with anxiety are no different. They feel the effect like everyone else.

Running changes your body’s response to anxiety.

If you go for a run every time worry starts creeping in, you begin to modify your brain’s responds to stress. Over time, the mere thought of going for a run brings a smile to your face.

Running also builds confidence and self-esteem.

Your inner strength increases alongside your physical strength. With more confidence, it’s be easier to try new things and meet new people. You may even decide to enter fun runs and races, which puts you in the path of like-minded people who also enjoy running.

If you’re looking for a natural way to treat anxiety, give running a try. If after a few weeks you haven’t noticed a change, you’ll at least see improvements in your health. If, like so many GAD sufferers, you see improvements, it will be easy to continue. Start running today and take back your life.