05/17/2023
Nourishing Excellence by Holly Morello is a prime example of what you can do to optimize your health, and Iām super proud of all sheās accomplished. Iām also happy to help when she needs it!
How running is healingā¦for me.
A lot of folks in the wellness space dis running & suggest ditching cardio for optimal health. I used to think this too. Now I say, context matters. You can still run & optimize your health by training smarter, not harder. If you want to run, find a coach/practitioner/trainer who will enthusiastically support you to do what you are passionate about.
I am super diligent about fueling & hydrating adequately - my nutrition is top notch. I prioritize sleep & practice what I call, āradical recovery.ā I strength train to help me build & maintain my muscles so I can tackle hills & sprint to the finish line. My weekly mix includes easy runs, a track workout, 1 long run, cross training, & a full rest day (or 2). I listen to my body. I consult .coleman27 (of Just Muscles) if Iām feeling a ni**le.
With those foundations in place, below are some other healing benefits.
Vitamin D from the sun (& much of the year most of my skin is exposed since I normally wear shorts & tanks)!
Forest bathing (I regularly run on forest trails) - spending time in a forest can reduce stress, anxiety, depression, & anger; strengthen the immune system; improve sleep, cardiovascular & metabolic health; & boost overall well-being. [Source: Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness by Dr. Qing Li]
Fresh air!
Brain boost - My brain feels better when I run! [ā...regular running raises dopamine activity in the brain & may protect nerve cells from damage. In addition, past research has tied exercise-driven boosts in the dopamine-triggering chemical called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) & in dopamine levels to improvements in learning & memory. ā- https://scitechdaily.com/scientists-discover-a-key-reason-why-running-boosts-brain-health/]
Mood boost - the runnerās highā¦especially when running with friends, which creates joy.
Built in regular therapy - Solo runs are good for clearing oneās head, problem solving, & coming up with ideas. Running with others creates strong bonds & studies even show that socializing & supporting one another in recovery actually enhances recovery!
What does running do for you?