Mental Healthcare is a continuing concern in the Philippines, with an average annual increase of 2.0% of Filipinos diagnosed with mental disorders like anxiety and depression as the rampant condition. There is a real need for mental health support, resources, and services for Filipinos.

However, most Filipinos can’t afford professional treatment. Thankfully, there are many free and affordable ways to take care of your mental health.

One way is running. So put on some lightweight clothes, plug in your earphones, and grab a pair of comfy shoes — here are 8 reasons why running can do wonders for your brain.

It reduces stress and anxiety 

Running can be a healthy coping mechanism to manage stress and anxiety.

Exercise helps to improve symptoms of anxiety, distress, and other mental health disorders. How?

For one thing, running can reduce the stress hormone cortisol. And if you’re running outdoors, sun exposure also increases our vitamin D3, which can boost your mood.

It makes you focused 

Whether you run indoors or outdoors, you automatically center your attention on one single thing at a time. In your solitude, you meet your emotions and face them confidently. 

It can be a form of meditation 

Running makes you concentrate, observe your breathing, form, rhythm, and sensation it brings.

While running at a regular pace, you begin to unwind from the blues that chains you, process your thoughts and break free from it. The repetitive action dissolves all the things that plague your mind.

It’s rewarding 

You discover something new about yourself, improve your distance and pace, and push you to meet your personal goals. There’s a sense of accomplishment after all the challenges and cramps of your first few tries. Kaya ko pala ‘to! 

You realize what YOU CAN and CANNOT DO to push your limits– TO DREAM BIG!

Bonus: you might find your active and competitive potential.

Better physical health leads better mental health

A healthy body leads to a healthy mind.

Running strengthens muscles, builds strong bones, and improves your well-being. After the run, you will feel strong, energetic, and over time, you’ll build a better self-image.

It gives you happy hormones 

As you run, the body releases endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin. These hormones boost your emotions, resulting in as positive feelings, happiness, and pleasure.

Running is addicting (in a good way!) 

When your body releases endorphins, it gives a euphoric feeling during and after the run, making you addicted to the sensation it brings. If you continue to run more and keep the cycle, it improves your health, lifestyle, and strength. It’ll give you motivation and confidence!

Running is FREE 

You know what the best thing about running is? There’s no entrance fee and you can run at any time you want. No pressure.

You can start with your old comfortable shoes (though we recommend investing in a good pair eventually). You can wear whatever you want. It won’t cost you anything to go for a run outside.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to be professional mental health advice. If you are dealing with serious mental health issues, we strongly encourage you to seek the guidance of a qualified professional.