Hello my peeps

[runnerguy33]

New to the community. I know there is healing power in this stuff so Im going to check things out a bit, cause thats what I do, gotta make sure things are safe first. Little about me..im 33, been living anxiety in one form or another since i was 5. I have only just started to live with a tangible hope this year.

[Hidden]

Welcome, take your time , look around! We'll be here! Glad you found this site!

[Equis-Canine Volunteer]

I'm glad you are here. We care.

[Hidden]

Hi runnerguy33. Welcome! I'm a runner too, and have realized that the running sure helps with toning down my anxiety symptoms. Have you experienced that?

I have had anxiety symptoms since I was 8, so I can relate to your experience.

Glad you're here!

[runnerguy33 in reply to Hidden]

I was reading an article a few minutes ago about these world class runners with super impressive times and amazing discipline thinking wow..then noticed myself starting to compare myself to them for but then cut myself off with the concept of what motivates a person. For me its about the why...why I run is for the clarity and the calm running brings..the first mile is usually the hardest for me because im still in what I call a judging mindset like what I was doing reading the running article. But after thw first mile or two..its on and im gone. So to answer your question yes, and to take it to the next level, it's the stretching and meditation right after the run that I love most☺ Run on Runner

[Hidden in reply to runnerguy33]

Yup, I don't even try to compare myself to my mile times when I was younger. I'm like you - the clarity and calm is why I do it. I even had one therapist note that I "work things out" while I'm on a long run.

A buddy of mine also had to point out the meditative aspect - left right left right and as I settle into that rhythm, my mind can relax and settle. Running continues to be one of the best tools in my arsenal to deal with my issues. The first mile - for me it's the first 2 miles that are the hardest. I used to only run 1 or 2 miles, and after I picked up the distance I realized I was running the hardest miles every day.

Stretching and meditation. I love that cool down part. For a while, I was doing tai chi work after - it really combined the meditation and calming.

Good to chat with another runner on this forum!