There's something almost magical about rediscovering an old habit that once served you well. For me, that rediscovery came in the form of running—an activity that had been a cornerstone of my mental health routine during lockdown but gradually faded from my life as the world reopened and schedules filled up.
My recent return to running wasn't just about physical fitness; it was about reclaiming a powerful tool for mental wellbeing that science strongly supports. When I completed my first 3.5km run after years away from the practice, the surge of clarity I experienced wasn't just psychological—it was a very real neuro-chemical response.
The Neuroscience of the Runner's High
A 2023 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences shows how just 30 minutes of running triggers the release of endorphins and anandamide—the body's natural antidepressants. Endorphins act similarly to morphine, reducing pain perception and triggering positive feelings, while anandamide activates the same receptors as THC, creating that characteristic sense of calm euphoria.
The mental clarity and emotional balance I experienced after running created a powerful reward cycle. Rather than dreading my next workout, I found myself genuinely looking forward to it - not out of obligation but with real anticipation for that post-run feeling.
This journey reinforced something essential: consistency paired with resilience truly equals fulfillment. Those small daily choices - putting on running shoes when motivation is low or pushing for one more kilometer when I'd rather stop - gradually accumulate into profound transformation.
As I rebuild this habit, I'm reminded that sometimes our most effective mental health tools don't require prescriptions or therapy sessions. They simply need movement and commitment to the process, one step at a time.