I know, I know. I literally just posted a story about a meatball bread bowl. And earlier this week I told you about how drinking alcohol makes you live longer. But now I'm here to tell you that you can beat your stress and anxiety by running. Hey, if you're gonna mow down a carbfest and wash it down with a supersize margarita, maybe going for a run isn't such a bad idea!
For real. Scientists have discovered that going for a little jog can be just as effective at combating stress as anxiety medication can. Now I know what you're thinking: "But Sarah," you say. "Running sucks." I know. I hate running. I actively avoid it. I love lifting weights, but running is my nemesis. But sometimes we adults have to do things that we don't really want to do. It's part of life.
An estimated one-third of US adults are overwhelmed by stress. Your job, your kids, your spouse, your bank account, traffic, paying bills, running your household, family obligations, helping friends in need...it adds up! That's a LOT on your plate, and spending 20-30 minutes a day going for a jog can help you manage it all in your mind.
Exercise releases endorphins, which make you happy. Running mitigates the negative impacts chronic stress has on the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory.
"Exercise is a simple and cost-effective way to eliminate the negative impacts on memory of chronic stress," said study lead author Jeff Edwards, associate professor of physiology and developmental biology at BYU.
So there ya go. Grab your running shoes and get out there!