running reduces stress

this is one of the main reasons why i love to run. i can be in the worst mood- sad, angry, frustrated, stressed, down on myself, etc- but once i lace up my running shoes, turn on the ipod, and hit the road, i feel incredible!
running helps me to feel good about myself. here is an excerpt from an article that i just love.
Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress. How? Exercise metabolizes (burns) those stress chemicals in your blood stream. And that makes sense because our bodies are waiting for a fight or flight response…so some vigorous activity (exercise) gives your body its desired response. Exercise also releases chemicals into your blood stream that counteract stress, called endorphins. These chemicals have been credited for the “runners high” and will leave you feeling good and care-free.
As exercise reduces stress chemically, it can also have a meditation-effect during long cardio workouts. Many long distance runners will experience a zoned-out state of consciousness during long runs. It’s a pleasant time to evaluate things or just ponder life’s tougher questions. The rhythm of running or other cardiovascular activity is a great way to get into this relaxed state. Some martial arts and meditation classes use deep breathing techniques to get into this state of relaxation. And this sense of calm will not only reduce your stress, but it can also prevent getting stressed-out too often in the future.
There are many, many positive health benefits of exercise…and now that you know that exercise reduces stress, too…try adding some more of it to your daily routine. A set of push-ups or crunches…a morning run…a brisk lunch-time walk…use exercise to reduce stress in your life and you’ll be happier and healthier for it!
go here to read the full article.
try it out! next time you feel stressed and just need a moment to yourself, get out of the house and exercise! listen to your favorite tunes while you’re at it :)