When most people think of running, they see it as a form of activity that improves their physical health. Running can be seen as a way to lose weight, get stronger and overall improve their physical well-being. However, running has been proven to significantly improve one’s mental well-being also. Studies have shown that running can be as effective as antidepressants when treating mild to moderate anxiety and depression(1).
The Runner’s High
Have you ever heard someone refer to running as their “drug”? It is because there is a chemical change in the brain that occurs during and after running that is similar to taking medication. Chemicals called endorphins are released during physical activity, especially during aerobic exercise such as running. These endorphins interact in the brain to reduce pain, as well as trigger a positive feeling in your body similar to morphine. These effects are not only temporary but have been shown to have long-lasting effects as well on mood and cognition.
In recent research, it has been found that endorphins are not the only source of achieving the “runner’s high”. Endocannabinoids are also released and bind to the same receptors in the brain as THC, which is responsible for a marijuana high(2). A release of these chemicals in our bodies over time allows for a process called neurogenesis to occur. Neurogenesis is when neurons build new pathways in the brain, much of which occurs when taking antidepressants.
Little Effort, Big Results
During times of depression and anxiety, it is usually un-motivating to lace up your shoes and head out the door. However, with as little as 30 minutes, one can benefit from the effects of running. Every step counts as a small victory and every step gets easier as time goes on. Celebrate those victories and the way in which physical activity of our bodies can mold and shape our minds.
Take Your Passion to the Next Step
Whether you compete or just run for fun, all runners can benefit from physical therapy. Our Doctors of Physical Therapy specialize in Sports Performance, and offer multiple services to the running community. Perfect your running form with our Gait Analysis, ease sore joints with myofascial release therapy, or step your training up with a custom running program through our performance app.
Reach out to us today and see how Physical Therapy can help you obtain that “Runner’s High” without any runner’s lows!
Citation:
1.Stathopoulou, G., Powers, M. B., Berry, A. C., Smits, J. A. J., & Otto, M. W. (2006). Exercise Interventions for Mental Health: A Quantitative and Qualitative Review. Clinical Psychology Science and Practice, 13(22), 179–193.
2. Raichlen, D. A., Foster, A. D., Gerdeman, G. L., Seillier, A., & Giuffrida, A. (2012). Wired to run: exercise-induced endocannabinoid signaling in humans and cursorial mammals with implications for the runners high. Journal of Experimental Biology, 215(8), 1331–1336. doi: 10.1242/jeb.063677
