How Running Can Improve Your Mood And Productivity

If you happen to look forward to hitting the open road or a rocky trail, not only will you be indulging in your favourite activity, but you are also more likely to be a happier person afterwards. Fitness enthusiasts have justified running to have a vast number of great health benefits, and when included in one’s daily routine can be good for mental health and stress relief. However, on the flipside, this has been the topic of debate amongst nay-sayers who find running to be exhausting, uneventful and overly taxing on the ‘dear old knees and ankles’.

Whatever your feelings about running are, this article aims to discuss its finer points and give evidentiary backing to the logic put forth by avid runners. If you’re just starting out and learning the ropes, this article might just prove to you that whether you’re running with a partner or by yourself while listening to your favourite music playlist, there are a few things you probably didn’t know (but should) about this phenomenal physical activity.

According to research and medical journals, Individuals who run outdoors are often in a state of mental relaxation. This means that their brain activity is in an alpha state, which can also be associated with someone who takes time out to reflect, meditate, pray or watch TV.

The frequency of brain activity in the alpha state ranges between 9-14 cycles per second, and is much lower in amplitude in comparison to that of a person having a conversation while driving or who is working on a stressful task, as their thoughts then are often rapid and dislocated (beta state). As a result, running can lead to improved memory and creativity. The ideation that can take place during a morning jog is often a free flow of ideas.

Studies done in the UK (Alzheimer’s Society, 2012) have shown that getting out of the house just three times a week can lead to better focus when carrying out tasks, and increased sense of self-esteem. When a person is engaged in a run they are typically in a very positive mental state and tasks become so automatic that they can mentally disengage themselves from them and get lost in deep reflection.

Patients suffering from clinical depression have also been advised by doctors to engage in aerobic activities such as cycling or running as part of medical treatment. It also reduces your chances of developing tension headaches, and occurs without censorship or guilt, and promotes the prevention of some genetically induced illnesses such as heart disease and dementia.

Running is also believed to stimulate the release of serotonin and dopamine in the body, which improves mood and leaves the runner in a prolonged state of euphoria. In addition, outdoor running is beneficial to human beings in the sense that being in their natural environment – trees, greenery and fresh air – can help reduce stress levels and anxiety. So, whether you are running on a treadmill, at the park, or on the open road, all you need is that first step to get started on the right track.

Note that it’s in the interest of both healthcare professionals and people new to exercise to seek medical counsel prior to engaging in any new physical activity or beginning a new exercise regimen, especially where physical exertion is involved.