Reason for Running #6 --- Stress Relief

Each and every day people suffer from various stresses. Stress from work, spouses and children, speeding tickets, traffic, etc. I do not believe I have ever met someone that says they live a stress free life. Though I have met some who have found ways to cope with these everyday stresses. Sadly some people cope by means of drugs and alcohol, others through various stages of depression and solidarity. More positive methods of coping deal with turning to God (or high being of ones choosing), meditating, talking with people, reading, writing, and running...Yes! That is right I said "RUNNING."

Running is a method that I personally use, not saying I don't include some of the others, but running gives me a chance to be alone with my thoughts and to really dive deep into whatever might be stressing me on that given day or week, or sometimes even stresses that sit with me for over a year. I guess running is my form of meditating. It will allow you time away from the hustle and bussle of a busy day at work or around the house. Sometimes if you are lucky with having trails to run, you will be able to get away from exhaust fumes and become enthralled with the nature surrounding you. Seeing squirrels hunt for nuts, and deer just grazing (or whatever it is deer do), birds chirping as you go by, and the occasional snake (watch out for those), allows for you to think about the joys and the beauty in the world.

Recently my stress level went up about 10 times the amount it has been in a year and I started to pull myself away from the world initially, thinking of course that it was something I needed to go at alone; not taking into consideration that I have family and friends who are and will always be there for me through thick and thin, but from Thursday to Sunday, I could not even bring myself to get out the door for a run; finally on Sunday morning while having a typical sleepless night (or morning) I kind of forced myself out the door with my running shoes on and I was able to really consider what it was that was bothering me and how I would go about handling it with the help of my family and friends (not alone). The running that morning did me good and it gave me a relief that I was in much need of, though it did not solve any problems, the running helped to give me a more positive outlook on what lies ahead.

So next time life throws you a curve ball and things seem to be overwhelming you, look to running as a way to get away and think about things in a relaxing setting.

Run On! Leave the stress behind...