We all know that running keeps you fit and can help you lose weight, but what about the psychological effects?
I know one person who says if they don't run at least 3 times a week, it has a negative effect psychologically.
I keep reading about how running makes them feel happy, free and helps them declutter and so on...
For me, at the moment, it's the feeling I get once I've completed a run I didn't think I could do as I'm still following couch to 5K.
What do you guys think?
absolutely. Exercise, endorphins all that jazz. Exercise has helped me immensely through some really tough emotional times, and just in general when things are normal acts as a daily happy pill.
Better than popping pills, right!
Absolutely.
(he says, swallowing his daily vit D, fish oil and ZMA capsules and a couple of painkillers for the muscle aches)
I agree it's like you're your own counsellor. Constant internal conversation with yourself the whole time you're running, working things through etc. And I get major endorphins although I hear this isn't a universal experience... Works for me though! I love the endorphins part, which is definitely drug-like. Plus there's the aspect of developing a routine, becoming someone who necessarily has to wash more often, take care of yourself better so you're always well enough to run. Definitely lots of psychological benefits 
I am about to start week 4, but have found the running really useful. Our house is very stressed at the moment so it's really good to get out and have some time to myself. Even if I don't think and just "do" i find it relaxes the mind if not the body!!
I've an acquaintance who took up running at the age of 69, having never run before more than 5 metres. He trained up with younger people and ran the London Marathon for the Samaritans. He had had several bouts of severe depression previously, but since taking up running has never suffered a return of the depression.
Have a look at this
thepsychologist.bps.org.uk/...
This was a very interesting article! Thank you for sharing
Just finding the me that is me and helping me to be the best me, I can be
Yep, running is my therapy! I am definately a much calmer, less anxious person since I took up running again a couple of years ago. Have not run for a few weeks due to cold/flu virus followed by nasty sinus infection and I am itching to get back out again (any day now!!)🙂
Keep running, keep smiling!!!!!
I'm a busy full time working mum. It's a guaranteed 3 half hour slots a week when I'm doing something for me. As much as I love my family it's good to not be 'on demand' 24/7.
I must say I haven't had the 'endorphin rush' but I do feel better mentally after a run on a run day. So my endorphins just creep in rather than flood 😉
I have depression and anxiety and it's nice to get out into nature and not have to worry about anything else. I own and work with dogs so do a lot of walking with them, but it's not as relaxing as I'm having to concentrate on them. With runners by it's just making sure I don't keel over!
I definitely feel more motivated to get up on a run day. It seems to set me up nicely (other than yesterday, I struggled yesterday!)
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