Mental well-being : Just a very quick post... - Couch to 5K

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Mental well-being

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate
188 Replies

Just a very quick post. Today, I had to see my GP about something very mundane. She asked me how I was. I said “Very well, thank you!“ She looked surprised and said that she didn’t hear that very often, and what could she do for me (after a brief moment of picking herself up from the floor). I told her why I was there, but also said that I had nearly completed C25K. She was really surprised (again - I really was a lazy lump in the past) and congratulated me, and asked how I felt about it. I told her that I had managed to wean myself completely off antidepressants (which I had been on for most of my adult life), and felt more alive. I told her that my running buddy had told me only yesterday, that I was much more confident than I was eight weeks ago. Again, she congratulated me and was very impressed in the change that had happened in a few weeks.

When I got home, I realised that I was smiling. I was actually feeling happy, truly happy, deep in myself. There was nothing happening to cause it, I was just happy. I honestly don’t remember the last time I had felt like that. Probably many decades - possibly dating back to childhood.

I know that my current mental state has been brought about by running. Pure and simple. I know it sounds corny, but I believe it to be true. ❤️

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MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardener
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188 Replies
Slothgoesrunning profile image
SlothgoesrunningGraduate

Now I am smiling with you 😁 what a great post. 🙌🏻

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Slothgoesrunning

Glad I made you smile! 😊

Stephen_UK profile image
Stephen_UKGraduate

Fantastic and inspiring post. There is something miraculous about this running business, for sure.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Stephen_UK

Thank you, Stephen, there really is. It’s not just the endorphins that float around immediately after a run, either. I think the brain seems to re-calibrate itself back to factory settings. 😁

Stephen_UK profile image
Stephen_UKGraduate in reply to MuddledGardener

Agree totally. It gives you a sense of peace and wellbeing that lasts long after the initial “high”. Probably this is why we all get so hooked on it.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Stephen_UK

I’d rather be hooked on this than booze or drugs! 😁

Stephen_UK profile image
Stephen_UKGraduate in reply to MuddledGardener

A lot cheaper too...

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Stephen_UK

I dunno... the shoes are a bit pricey! 🤣

SueAppleRun profile image
SueAppleRunGraduate

What an amazing journey you are having thanks for sharing, we did week 3 run 1 yesterday and i felt really happy all evening and energetic too, did laundry and played music and just felt good to be alive and consider it was only day 2 of back to work after illness for five weeks was a great feeling i love running and love hearing about your journey too

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to SueAppleRun

Thank you! To be honest, I just can’t keep quiet about it! 😁So glad you are enjoying it too! 😊

SueAppleRun profile image
SueAppleRunGraduate in reply to MuddledGardener

Reading other people’s posts is so inspiring

this first week back at work it an eye opener after lolling on the sofa for weeks

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to SueAppleRun

I love reading people’s success stories. It’s helped me so much.

SueAppleRun profile image
SueAppleRunGraduate in reply to MuddledGardener

Me too

nif100 profile image
nif100Graduate

I can feel your smile from here. I am so inspired by your message and it shows that running has so many other benefits and I am glad it has brought you a happinessx

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to nif100

Thank you! How’s the sciatica? Any improvement?

nif100 profile image
nif100Graduate in reply to MuddledGardener

thanks for asking....it is getting there. Been able to get up to 3 mile walks now. Still feel it tight when I get up from sitting but I can stretch it out. I think I over did the tennis ball pressure yesterday though as I now have a lovely bruise trigger point, but maybe that is a good thing as hopefully it is breaking up that elastic band feelingx

Delly-dot profile image
Delly-dotGraduate

How wonderful it was to read this post and understand what an achievement it is that you feel this way. C25k works a special sort of magic, and somehow it releases something inside of us that is hiding just under the surface, waiting to shine through. Your running buddy noticed it before you.... It is a very special moment when you recognise this for yourself. ☺️ Xx

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Delly-dot

Thank you. I told the GP that a new person had emerged from within! 😀

Delly-dot profile image
Delly-dotGraduate in reply to MuddledGardener

That’s really fantastic to hear! Just think how graduating is going to make you feel!!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Delly-dot

I can’t wait! 😃

Buddy34 profile image
Buddy34Graduate

You are absolutely correct , the happier mood that stays and the overall feeling of being positive is brought on by running , I also believe so . Long may it continue 😊😊

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Buddy34

Long live running! 🎉🎉🎉

Laurzmum profile image
LaurzmumGraduate

What an inspiring post. ❤️❤️

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Laurzmum

Thank you. I had to share my news. 😊

UnfitNoMore profile image
UnfitNoMoreGraduate

Congratulations on consigning those meds to the bin... that’s a massive victory right there... and you’re about to close this out for another. Enjoy the new happier healthier you... you did all the hard work.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to UnfitNoMore

Thank you! But all of you on here are part of my success too! Hang on, I haven’t graduated yet! Cart before horse, and all that! 🤣

UnfitNoMore profile image
UnfitNoMoreGraduate in reply to MuddledGardener

Most graduates I talk to draw inspiration from all the new runners working through the plan too... we’re a pretty formidable team!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to UnfitNoMore

Oh yes! 💪🤨

MarybellM profile image
MarybellM

Not corny...Brilliant and inspiring!!!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to MarybellM

Thank you! 😁

Decker profile image
Decker

Not corny at all. I agree 100%. It changes you on the outside and the inside too.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Decker

And you should know! Just read your profile! 🙌🙌🙌

Decker profile image
Decker in reply to MuddledGardener

Yes, it’s made a massive positive change to my life, physically and maybe more importantly mentally.

Love it! ❤️ Great post. 😃

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to

Thank you! 😁

Meepmum profile image
MeepmumGraduate

Phenomenal work from you got you to where you are, nurture that glow within to keep you going through grey times.👏🌠🤗

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Meepmum

Thank you! 😊

BaddieThePirate profile image
BaddieThePirateGraduate

Well done, how fantastic. 😀

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to BaddieThePirate

Thank you!

backintime profile image
backintimeGraduate

Great post as always MG. Really glad that this has helped wean you off anti depressants, that is a huge win.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to backintime

Thank you! I feel so much lighter in spirit. 😊

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate

Yeayayayaya!!! Win... win.... great to surprise folk with your awesome running :)

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Oldfloss

Her face was a picture! 😂

Fatgirlslim19 profile image
Fatgirlslim19Graduate

Aw such a wonderful post MG! I'm so pleased for you that it's brought about such a positive change. And it sounds like you made the doctor's day too!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Fatgirlslim19

Thank you! We laughed so much during the consultation, people probably wondered what was going on! 🤣

Fatgirlslim19 profile image
Fatgirlslim19Graduate in reply to MuddledGardener

Let them wonder!

HGVDan profile image
HGVDanGraduate

Personally never suffered with mental illness but after taking up running it still lifted me in general

Rather than binge eating or going from work directly to the pub etc I now strap on my shoes and go running, it’s good for mind and body and if you are short on time sprints work well you can still get enough work out in 20 mins with sprint work if a long run isn’t possible

Keep up the awesome work and keep smiling and influencing other to try running as a medicine

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to HGVDan

Thank you! 😊

keeponrunnin profile image
keeponrunnin

What a lovely post. Completely agree, running is good for the mind as well as the body.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to keeponrunnin

Thank you!

Sammy-Lou profile image
Sammy-Lou

Well done muddledgardener! It’s definitely a confidence and mood booster! And as i tell everyone ‘if i can do it anyone can’! I’m even contemplating a treadmill fir the long dark winter months as we live in the middle of a field and my husband is forward thinking for me (he suggested treadmill) as he can see how much I’m enjoying c25k! Park runs are my next plan - think they will be addictive too - don’t know if you’ve tried but meeting like minded people will also be fun for you. Well done you!!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Sammy-Lou

Thank you! Park runs are on the agenda, don’t worry!

littleOnetwo profile image
littleOnetwoGraduate

Wow! That’s great well done! I too am enjoying both the physical and mental benefits of running. Everyone notices the weight loss (which is encouraging) but not everyone recognises the change in mental health. Keep up the great work running takes both physical and mental strength (I’m slowly realising that it’s actually more about the mental strength)

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to littleOnetwo

Thank you! You need determination to start, but it’s self-generating after that.

Foodbaby profile image
FoodbabyGraduate

Well done you, keep smiling

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Foodbaby

Thank you!

BarbieW profile image
BarbieWGraduate

Great post well done.

I understand Parkrun have been partnering with some local GP surgeries to try to encourage people to take up running. Maybe yours could be encouraged to look into that after your success!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to BarbieW

Thank you! What an interesting idea.

TailChaser profile image
TailChaserGraduate

What a beautiful post! If ever there was a better reason to start running I can’t think of one. Wonderful MG! 😍

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to TailChaser

Thank you! 😊

Bobbypizza profile image
BobbypizzaGraduate

This is the reason why I started running as well. I wasn't on medication but I felt something was off with my mental health. It works, it s not corny. Regular activity makes you a happier person and I hope this post inspires those in a similar situation. I wish my brother could see this. Keep it up. 5k is just the start. You re awesome.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Bobbypizza

Thank you! So are you, 🎓!

Kpad profile image
KpadGraduate

That is such great news - well done ❤️

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Kpad

Thank you!

Potbellylelly profile image
PotbellylellyGraduate

Wow that is so fantastic. Running is amazing . I grin like a Cheshire Cat when I’m running . So glad you are off the meds . Be proud of yourself you deserve it . Fantastic 🏃‍♀️💃👍

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Potbellylelly

Thank you!

Icandoit2019 profile image
Icandoit2019Graduate

That’s great really pleased to hear. I find running really therapeutic and lifts the spirits.

Long may it keep helping you all the best!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Icandoit2019

Thank you! Keep on running!

Biddy62 profile image
Biddy62Graduate

What a wonderful post to read. Made me happy too - for you and for all of us that have been given this gift to lift our spirits. The program does so much more than it says on the tin and this forum is the most supportive and happy place. Wishing you many more years of running and continued happiness Well done you Muddledgardener 😊🏃🏻‍♀️🙄💐

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Biddy62

Thank you so much!

suegrace profile image
suegraceGraduate

Dear muddledgardener how apt your post is to me!!! I too went to the doctor yesterday I am a recovering alcoholic and was nine years sober on the 6th June. Months ago I decided to come off escitalopram really a lot after 9 years and am now 5 weeks off it. A week ago I crashed and have been in an awful withdrawal but went to doctor who told me what I wanted to hear I can do this. Told her about my running. Never run before and I'm 62 and run week 9 3 times a week plus a running club and working out she said all that is brilliant and may be run more! I just don't want to give in so I'm off running again now to chase my anxiety away. Thank you for your postxxx

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to suegrace

Oh Suegrace, well done for persevering. What a wonderful achievement! My brother died from alcoholism, so I know how destructive it is. You are so strong and a survivor. Keep on keeping on, especially with the wonderful running. Xx

suegrace profile image
suegraceGraduate in reply to MuddledGardener

Oh I'm so so sorry Muddledgardener it is a killer disease that dosnt stop when the drink is put down is hard. I'm one of the lucky ones who wanted out of the madness. Found recovery and running ! Well done you. Where are you from I'm in kentxxx

Brilliant , and long may it continue!!👌✌

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to

Thank you! 😊

Bello543 profile image
Bello543

Well done you ! 😀 I'm hooked now. Managed 23 miles in a week...injured myself lol but better now

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Bello543

Wow! That’s amazing! 🙌

Bello543 profile image
Bello543 in reply to MuddledGardener

Missed the coming off antidepressants bit. Big wow! It's all about the natural high. Well done keep it up. Stretch stretch and stretch again especially hip flexors and calves. Soon you'll not be out of breath at 5k and will want to do more. Also 10 % rule!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Bello543

I’ll remember! 😊

Mause profile image
MauseGraduate

Almost shed a tear there.. wonderful to read! Posts like these keep a lot of us going when the going gets tough. Thank you and never ever lose that smile again 😃

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Mause

Aw, thank you so much! 😁

Rubygrace- profile image
Rubygrace-

What a wonderful uplifting post, you have made my day x

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Rubygrace-

Thank you, Rubygrace! 😊

SpeedMaQueen profile image
SpeedMaQueenGraduate

What a lovely post! Keep smiling 🙂 - that made me smile too! Happy running 🙂

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to SpeedMaQueen

Thank you! 😊

Greenfingergran profile image
Greenfingergran

Well you don't sound very muddled to me. I feel really happy for me.

In January I had complete melt down having taken myself (really stupid I know) of my antidepressants because I had been really well for years.

My GP was so supportive and understanding buttoldmei would have to take them again for life.

To try and help myself recover my daughter, who is a psychiatric nurse and runs marathons, suggested I try C25k. She even gave me running gear.

My first week of the programme was tough but I immediately started to feel a wee bit better. Every week after that just got better and better.

The day of the London Marathon I ran my first 5k in 43mins.(my daughter did the 10k in 56min) I felt so proud of myself, my self asteem which was nonexcistant in January went through the roof.

I had to report back to my GP last week. When I told her how well I was she was so delighted.

On Sunday I am running another 5k in East Lothian. My daughter paid for it and bought me new running 🏃 gear for my 69th birthday.

My next challenge is to run a 10k for my 70th next year.

I am just off to run 5k now. I do try to do 3 a week.

I wish you good mental and physical health. 😉

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Greenfingergran

Wow! You are awesome! You have set the bar high! 🙌🙌🙌

Greenfingergran profile image
Greenfingergran

I meant I am happy for You.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Greenfingergran

I know! 😁

Midlifecath profile image
MidlifecathGraduate

Wonderful & inspiring

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Midlifecath

Thank you!

Newrunner52 profile image
Newrunner52Graduate

You are amazing. Made me smile 😁

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Newrunner52

Aw, thank you!

Sputnik73 profile image
Sputnik73

That is so wonderful to read. So happy for you 😊 I have been going through some not brilliant times the last few weeks and have taken up running again and things are slowly getting better and better and I believe thats because I am slowly getting better and better. Its not just coincidence. Lets keep it up! X

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Sputnik73

Thank you! Keep on running! 😁

j6b1 profile image
j6b1Graduate

What a lovely outcome from your hard work, congratulations.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to j6b1

Thank you!

Oldgirlruns profile image
OldgirlrunsGraduate

If you believe it to be true MG, then it is true! You have given us a fabulous post here, it genuinely made me well up! Keep running,stay well and keep posting - you know we’re all with you!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Oldgirlruns

Oh thank you! You just made me well up! 😂

Evol profile image
EvolGraduate

That's so positive, I am truly happy for you. You made me smile too!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Evol

Thank you! 😊

Kertesz profile image
Kertesz

*Blub*... but good blub!!! How amazing... well done you!! X

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Kertesz

🤣 Thank you!

Bloody marvellous 👍🏃🏾‍♀️😊

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to

Thank you so much!

Lynsh profile image
LynshGraduate

What a lovely post to read, thanks for sharing and well done its a great achievement. Go you! This running is highly addictive and effective.

I've been suffering some work stress and running is definitely helping me.

Keep enjoying and keep ☺ xx

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Lynsh

Thank you! Running is definitely the best medicine!

Malaymum profile image
MalaymumGraduate

Great, inspirational post. I wish I could say the same. I was feeling great while doing C25K but since graduating it has gone downhill. I’m struggling to run for 30 minutes, am finding it hard and not enjoying it. When will I ever feel that runners high? I’m just not feeling it. I’m miserable, work and life are getting me down,

and running isn’t helping like I thought it would.

Bluepup1 profile image
Bluepup1Graduate in reply to Malaymum

I’m sorry to hear this 🤗 x Maybe try your Dr/Nurse? Failing that try a herbal remedy or something (even for a short time until you can see the Dr?) I’m really not sure what to advise otherwise - sorry! 🤞🏻things will improve for you, but rather than not go out running at all, maybe walk instead? It’ll still give you some me time away from it all and/or try some meditation? Hope things will improve 🤗🤗 x

Malaymum profile image
MalaymumGraduate in reply to Bluepup1

Thank you. I’m going to keep up the running, I just want to feel that runners high and enjoy it again. Sleep and water are needed, too!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Malaymum

I’m so sorry to hear this. Maybe go back to using the programme to get yourself going again. Have you thought about finding a park run that you could join? Lots of people say what fun they are, and that they meet lots of nice people. Also, try setting yourself a goal. That should help the motivation a bit. I’m still a novice, so maybe ask the admins for help? @Oldfloss is one of them. ❤️

Malaymum profile image
MalaymumGraduate in reply to MuddledGardener

I think I’ll use the programme again - that’s good advice. I really enjoyed it and felt motivated. Thank you

Lifluf profile image
Lifluf in reply to Malaymum

That's a shame Malaymum. Are you able to relax and switch off when you run. I love that I get a chance to get away from it all and play my music. Maybe try a different time of day to run or a slightly shorter distance until you feel comfortable.

Malaymum profile image
MalaymumGraduate in reply to Lifluf

Thank you, yes, I play my music. I did really enjoy it. I feel like I’ve lost my way a bit and need to get going again.

Bluepup1 profile image
Bluepup1Graduate in reply to Malaymum

We all have off times, it’s when they last for a few weeks that it could be getting out of hand - especially if you can’t put your finger on the reason x Always come on over to the forum for help, advice, a rant or share your successes - someone will always try and help! No one needs to feel alone 🤗 x

Oldgirlruns profile image
OldgirlrunsGraduate in reply to Malaymum

Hi Malaymum,

Could you perhaps join a running club so that you could run with like minded people - being with others and having a regular ‘date’ might give you back your mojo? Good luck!

hamit profile image
hamitGraduate

If it real for you then its Real!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to hamit

It is! 😊

Astra5 profile image
Astra5Graduate

Absolutely brilliant MuddledGardener - you have just raised the bar and invited more people to join your Mental well being (me included).

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Astra5

Thank you! It would be lovely for us all to be much happier! 😁

primaballerina profile image
primaballerina

Wow. Just Wow.... so happy for your happiness... GREAT post. xxxx Big hug.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to primaballerina

Thank you so much! 😊 xx

Nigel6731 profile image
Nigel6731

Spot on. People ask me why I started running. I say to get fit. But I now keep running, only 50% to keep fit, the other 50% is my mental health- it's a great way to get out of the house and relax my mind and free myself of worries.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Nigel6731

Spot on, Nigel!

Lindsey-joy profile image
Lindsey-joyGraduate

That post has made me happy!

I'm so pleased for you!

You are doing so well and are nearly at the finish line now! Keep going Muddled, we are all cheering you on!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Lindsey-joy

Thank you, Lindsey-joy! 😁

Dottie_D profile image
Dottie_DGraduate

Fantastic. So nice to hear about the positive effects of running. I know just what you mean😜😃

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Dottie_D

Thank you!

Couchpotato2 profile image
Couchpotato2Graduate

How lovely 😊

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Couchpotato2

Thank you!

Vintage61 profile image
Vintage61Graduate

This post makes me very happy 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Vintage61

That’s good enough for me! 😁

Cissysparkels profile image
Cissysparkels

That is so fantastic. Well done you!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Cissysparkels

Thank you!

Lifluf profile image
Lifluf

Wow fantastic! I feel so happy for you. Remember this feeling and this moment. If life ever throws you a curve ball you will know how to overcome it now. Well done! You've achieved this all by yourself.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Lifluf

Thank you so much!

Jen302 profile image
Jen302Graduate

So happy to read that and so happy that you are happy :-)

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Jen302

Thank you!

Bluepup1 profile image
Bluepup1Graduate

WTG!! So pleased for you! 🤗 x

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Bluepup1

Thank you!

Jell6 profile image
Jell6Graduate

😘😘😘 . Great post, and thank you for sharing your joy.🤗

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Jell6

Thank you! It would be selfish to keep the good news to myself! 😁

Rosy230973 profile image
Rosy230973Graduate

I’m so delighted to hear this positivity in your view of life. Isn’t it amazing how nine weeks can change one’s life?

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Rosy230973

Thank you! It is indeed!

Serenity0365 profile image
Serenity0365Graduate

Thank you MuddledGardener for your inspirational post and I personally relate to coming off all antidepressants slowly and feeling normal and happier with this new running lark and long, long may it continue 😁👍☀️

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Serenity0365

Good for you! 😊

Dalmorangie profile image
DalmorangieGraduate

Have just literally started my C25k “journey” and joined this forum, and what you say isn’t corny at all. Only done R1 & R2 of W1 so far but amazed at the buzz and extra cognitive energy you get from it!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Dalmorangie

Magic, isn’t it? 😁

Tazzy_wazzy profile image
Tazzy_wazzyGraduate

Fantastic post. I hope that I can throw mine away soon 😀

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Tazzy_wazzy

Yay! Just do it gradually. 😊

Megbird profile image
Megbird

I believe you 100% even 1000%. I totally agree. Always, always if I am upset or struggling mentally I always went for a run until my mental state is better. So you are right and keep it up and I am so happy for you that you have found the right medicine RUNNING.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Megbird

Thank you! 😊

smeeagain profile image
smeeagainGraduate

its so so true....i think its the best reward for all the effort we put in....well worth it

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to smeeagain

👍😊

Blackcat66 profile image
Blackcat66Graduate

You are absolutely right! I am really glad to hear how good you are feeling. I was diagnosed with cancer last year, so have been through a really dark time: waiting for diagnosis, surgery, waiting for results, radiotherapy, tests, and now the terrifying freedom of checkups. I was always a couch potato, but from the day I got referred for further tests I found it was hard to sit still, and started going for long walks. No matter how terrified I felt, the anxiety always became a bit more manageable after exerting myself like that. Recently the events of last year all caught up, and my GP wanted to prescribe antidepressants. I wasn't keen, so instead I started Couch to 5K. It's been an amazing journey so far (currently on a rest day after W6R1) and I cannot believe the change in my mood. I feel less anxious, less stressed, and more confident than I have in years. I completely agree with everything you've written.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Blackcat66

Well done on coming through the other side. You must have had a horrible time. Good luck in your running journey. Xx

Bluepup1 profile image
Bluepup1Graduate in reply to Blackcat66

Hope your running journey goes well and best wishes 🤗 x

trapeze profile image
trapeze

thats brilliant, its a good to know that you have this to try again if you feel down at a future time, we all faulter occassionally, or often !! but well done to you .

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to trapeze

Thank you!

notquiteretired profile image
notquiteretiredGraduate

really pleased for you MuddledGardener🙌😊

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to notquiteretired

Thank you! 😊

Sillybilly1 profile image
Sillybilly1Graduate

What a lovely post, like most, I am smiling with/for you.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Sillybilly1

Thank you! Well done for all your success!

Sybilw profile image
SybilwGraduate

Amazing. Long may it continue. Well done- it’s you that made the difference.

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Sybilw

Thank you, but you lot have helped no end! 😊

Huffinpuffer profile image
HuffinpufferGraduate

Lovely to read this. You are steaming ahead with your journey and are clearly in total control!.... it also sounds like your doctor is helpful too! You got some really positive affirmation there!

I hope running continues to bring you a sense of well being, but if you do have difficult days please do us the huge honour of sharing your thoughts with us. This is a really supportive group who will be there for you - good days and bad!!!!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Huffinpuffer

Thank you. I have posted a couple of difficult runs, and got some helpful advice and encouragement. 😁

johnm12 profile image
johnm12Graduate

Thankyou for this inspirational post. I'm 61 and not a sentimental person but I did well up when I read you post. Fantastic. The journey will continue post graduation. Just going out a couple of times a week is fantastic. Onwards and upwards!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to johnm12

Thank you, John. This is only the start of my running career! 😀

Clairecandothis profile image
ClairecandothisGraduate

Snap. 100% running saved me x

Kimbov profile image
KimbovGraduate

Love this. Running has transformed my life. Best anti- depressant available, fresh air and regular exercise.

Well done 👊

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Kimbov

Thank you!

SaskAlliecat profile image
SaskAlliecatGraduate

What a lovely post and oh, so true for many of us. Running has helped me through many difficult dark times. I am not on meds myself (although have thought perhaps I should be) since running has helped me clear the mind and work through the struggles. I am feeling the darkness closing in again so have taken a few days off work and have a plan to spend a few days at the lake in my favourite place, taking time for running and just making time for myself (selfish perhaps, but so needed). Thank you for sharing your amazing story!

Bluepup1 profile image
Bluepup1Graduate in reply to SaskAlliecat

Not selfish at all!! Sometimes you need time out for yourself otherwise you can’t be there for others or do what you need to do - hope you feel better after your little break! 🤗 x

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to SaskAlliecat

I really hope you can find some peace at the lake. You are not selfish at all. I agree with Bluepup1. Take care. Xx

Clairecandothis profile image
ClairecandothisGraduate in reply to SaskAlliecat

I hope the running and water helps you. The hint of the darkness is the first sign I have to run more and find my solitude. Not selfish. Needed. X

IloveMichael profile image
IloveMichaelGraduate

Well I'm sitting here sobbing MuddledGardener - at the positivity of your post and this amazing forum. It must be the most positive and supportive place on the worldwide web! Well done to you, and to everyone on this running journey. It isn't always easy and I certainly don't love every run I do, but it is definitely worth persevering because, as you show, it is life-changing. Happy running everyone!

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to IloveMichael

Thank you so much! Happy running to you, too! 😁

JoP61 profile image
JoP61Graduate

I'm sure everyone has said it all already, but your post is very inspirational. Running has been very important for my mental health over the last 18 months, and has staved off several black dogs. So very well done to you for making such fundamental changes with your running. You will find it gets better and better, despite the days when you feel you didn't run very well, etc. The key is that you are running! Very best wishes and I'll be looking out for your graduation post and those that follow. 👏👏👏👍😀

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to JoP61

Thank you so much! I had a dreadful run today! 😂

JoP61 profile image
JoP61Graduate in reply to MuddledGardener

Yes but it was a run! 🤣🤣👍

Good news, congratulations for gaining mental and physical fitness. I agree that activity of physical exercise and walking and running that employs the whole body and everything in it makes a healthy and intelligent life, active life is intelligent life, and I think that the very meaning of life is being active physically

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to

Very profound!

Mercmancouchto5k profile image
Mercmancouchto5kGraduate

Hi, thanks for sharing. I feel the same. More remarkably, my little brother smashed couch25K four months ago and now regularly runs up to 10K in very hilly area (Mossley). I agree 100% with your experience. Long may it continue

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to Mercmancouchto5k

Wow! You’re both doing SO well! 🙌🙌🙌

getfit50 profile image
getfit50

Amazing! I felt the same in week 2 so much happier 😃😃good luck

MuddledGardener profile image
MuddledGardenerGraduate in reply to getfit50

Thank you! 😊

VBSN profile image
VBSN

Interesting post! Thank you.

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