Endorphin Chasing
I can’t even begin to explain how thankful I am to have running in my life. I know running isn’t everyone’s thing, and it wasn’t mine either, until the arrival of my first born. It was really out of necessity that I started, having been a cross-training gym go-er beforehand. Having a baby made the gym a time-consuming, logistical hassle I didn’t have the bandwidth to deal with in my then constantly-sleep-deprived state. I got myself a running pram and when I say I started out slowly, that is no understatement. A little jogging, a little walking, a couple of times a week. But I was outdoors and exercising when I wanted to be, without having to involve anyone else to look after the baby. It was freedom and the emotional boost was unquantifiable!
Running has truly given me so much. The endorphins have carried me through more than I can imagine any therapist or prescription could. Like many people, life has thrown some curve balls my way. If you can also relate to this, and exercise isn’t already a part of your day-to-day, I couldn’t recommend more highly that you get moving! It’s at times when we are most in need of a little self-care that it’s often furthest from our minds. I’ve come to realise it’s really just about movement. It doesn’t need to be anything more extreme than a walk to get the benefits. I also realise, that for exercise to happen, you have to make it a priority. With busy schedules, interrupted nights and elevated stress levels, it’s often one of the first things to be dropped. You’ve really got to be flexible to ensure you get your daily, life changing endorphin hit! For me it’s been early starts, but trust me, it’s been worth it!
I run a lot. But not far or fast as I hate the feeling of being out of breath. I just run frequently because it keeps everything so level in my mind. Exercise keeps dreaded anxiety and tension at bay and boosts my mood and outlook beyond quite literally anything. That’s no overstatement. The endorphins you get from exercise are more potent and beneficial than anything else I know of. No wonder people talk about getting ‘high’ on their own supply. Of course, there are days when I really don’t feel like running. But I know how I feel if I don’t and that is enough to get me going. If I end up walking most of the way, I still benefit immeasurably! Walking has to be one of the most underestimated forms of exercise.
Being out in the open air is such a simple pleasure which can be more uplifting than you’ve probably ever given it credit for. I’m saying this as someone who didn’t give it a second thought for most of their life. But now, knowing what it feels like when you have no idea where to turn or what to do to relieve the tension and pain which loss or stressful circumstances can cause you, on top of the demands of the day-to-day, I immeasurably value it. A leveller beyond all others.
My experiences over the years have taught me that endorphins are little super-heroes and Mother Nature is quite the therapist. Both of these wonders are free to all. So if you’re in a tight spot, are a sleep deprived parent, or you’re just in need of boost, give them a shot. I’m certain you’ll keep going back for more.
