Keep Running Fun and (Mentally) Healthy
Athletes, actors, and other celebrities coming forward with their own mental health struggles have made it easier for more of us to speak up when we’re not ok. But not all of us are willing to open up that much. And as runners, that release, reset, or retreat is often found in lacing up and hitting the road, trail, or treadmill. While that’s great, it isn’t always enough. And sometimes, it’s too much.
Juliet Lam Kuehnle, is a licensed clinical mental health counselor here in Charlotte. You may have seen her on TV, heard her podcast, or even read her book. (Good on you!) She’s an athlete, a parent, spouse, boss, and business owner, too. She knows personally and professionally that running is not just about physical activity; it’s also a powerful coping mechanism that can significantly boost mental well-being.
“Exercise is absolutely a top coping skill for runners,” Kuehnle emphasizes. “It boosts feel-good hormones and positively impacts mental health through improved physical well-being.”
So yeah; running isn’t just about logging miles. It’s also about nurturing mental wellness. And, Kuehnle says it’s important to find the joy and purpose in our running, and not just the fodder for our Strava account.
“The most crucial aspect for runners is to find movement that aligns with their values and brings joy,” she advises, “it’s about personal enjoyment, not external pressures.”
We should prioritize activities that resonate with our passions and beliefs, rather than fears or society pressures. For runners, the experience of running should feel restorative, recharging, and nurturing. Kuehnle warns against turning running into a stressful or punitive activity. If it becomes punishing or stressful, it’s moving away from self-care.
Top tips to keep running fun and healthy:
- “Exercise is absolutely a top coping skill for runners. It boosts feel-good hormones and positively impacts mental health through improved physical well-being.”
- “The most crucial aspect for runners is to find movement that aligns with their values and brings joy. It’s about personal enjoyment, not external pressures.”
- “Running should feel restorative, recharging, and nurturing. If it becomes punishing or stressful, it’s moving away from self-care.”
- “Remaining flexible in your running routine is key. Listen to your body and adjust intensity and type of runs based on daily needs.”
Kuehnle suggests we all remain flexible in our running routines. Listen to your body and adjust intensity and type of runs based on daily needs, how you feel, etc. Sometimes a rest day is what we really need, regardless of what the training calendar suggests. This adaptive approach not only prevents burnout and potential injury, but also promotes sustainability and long-term enjoying running for the long term. We can all feel pretty good about that.
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