I have never been able to figure out why it is so hard to meet people who enjoy running. Actually, it seems like nearly everyone I meet at school despises it. Anytime I ask someone to run with me, the response is either an instant "NO" or a "How do you like to run?" It's really hard to find people to run with in college, and it's especially disappointing considering I had a whole cross-country team to workout with in high school. Call me crazy, but I love running; without it, I don’t think I could manage any stressful aspects of my daily life.

If you're a runner, you know that some days are better than others. One day you might be so energized that you could keep running forever (not actually) and another day you might feel dead and ready to give up after the first 100 feet. You know that since running is such a centralized part of your daily routine, you feel incomplete if one day you don't find time to get a workout in. You also know that the best feeling in the world is that "runner's high" and the rhythm you get into once you get to that point. Whether you would rather run a marathon or watch a marathon of episodes from your favorite show, I promise you that any amount of running is guaranteed to improve your well-being somehow.

There are plenty of reasons why you shouldn't wait any longer to get out and start running. It's not only great for getting your mind off of anything that is bothering you, but it's also just a great way to feel better and happier overall. I have always been one to go on a run when I am having a rough day or need to clear my head. Whether I am stressed about school, work, or anything else, it always works. It's true that a good workout can fix just about anything; I mean come on, have you ever heard a person say "wow I wish I didn't go on that run" after he or she finishes a work out? Probably not. Another great reason to take up running is that you can enjoy it just about anywhere and anytime (rain or shine)! Whether it's on a trail, on the road, or on a treadmill, all you need is a pair of shoes and some motivation to start.

The really cool part about all of this is that physical activity of any sort is really beneficial for reducing stress. First off, running causes your brain to release endorphin's, also known as the natural painkillers in your body that allow you to feel more relaxed. Studies even show that daily exercise helps you de-stress because it makes it easier for you to get a better night's sleep! Along with that, running lowers your resting heart rate, decreases blood pressure, and it also boosts your levels of serotonin, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter in your body. There are so many positive benefits that come with a quick 30-minute run each day; it's a no-brainer that it really is the best medicine!