Running has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I know what you’re thinking, crazy, right? I’ll admit, meeting people with a similar passion are usually few and far between.
I try to run five days a week, not only to stay fit, but because running seems to positively influence my overall well-being. When I don't run I feel more lethargic and easy irritated.
LSD (long slow distance) has always been a part of my life. I grew up in a family surrounded by runners. My three sisters and I ran Cross Country, Track and indoor track for our local high school.
My middle school nickname, “giraffe legs” and love for LSD (long slow distance), was apparently the perfect recipe to making the Varsity team as an eighth grader.
All three of my sisters and I made appearances at the State Championship meet for five consecutive seasons. My youngest sister, Natalie, outdid us all her Sophomore year, by wiping out the competition and taking home a section four championship title. My two older sisters completed their second marathon race a couple of weeks ago and both my parents have run several 5k’s, 20k’s and half-marathons. This September, I will run my third half and I hope to tackle 26.2 within the next couple of years.
So why am I telling you this? You’re thinking “I hate running”, “I get so bored when I run," or “Why would I put myself through the discomfort of long distance running?”
Well, what if I told you it could make you happier? Would you give it a chance?
Physical exercise of any kind, running, lifting or whatever it is you do to keep yourself moving, might be better for you than you think. Running can make you an all around happier person and let's be honest, who doesn't need more happiness in their life?
As you exercise, endorphins are released by the pituitary gland in your brain. Endorphins act as a “Natural Drug,” making you feel more alert, energetic and ultimately euphoric. Endorphins act not only as a natural drug, but also a “Natural Pain-Killer.” They help to shield pain, which is why on long runs it’s common to experience a sense of numbness and escape any feelings of discomfort.
Typically, this euphoric feeling is only reached by runners or athletes who participate in strenuous exercise, but it happens differently for everyone, depending on the type of runner you are. A “Runner’s High” can happen either during a workout, or upon it’s completion, but you won’t know how to obtain this blissful state until you lace up your sneakers and try.
A person is more likely to feel a sense of euphoria, if they run with a buddy or throw their ear buds in for some extra motivation.
So, however you prefer to exercise, remember, the pain won’t last long, if at all. Get out there, run or do whatever it is you do to stay healthy, but choose happiness for yourself because your body deserves it.
