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You are here: Home / Uncategorized / how running saves my sanity

how running saves my sanity

February 22, 2023      11 Comments

In the midst of all my personal chaos, I can be sure of one thing: running saves my sanity. It is a coping mechanism for which I am eternally grateful, because it helps me get through some of the more difficult days. How? I’d love to tell you.

Running Gives Me Time To Process

I’m a person who really likes to be alone with myself and my thoughts, so when times are tough, running allows me the time and space to process. It’s even better when I can choose a location that lends itself to solitude.

Running Allows Me To Disconnect

While I do take my phone on my runs, I am pretty disconnected. This gives me the ability to focus on myself and the moment, rather than getting distracted by other things. It’s easy to allow outside influences to help push off dealing with problems, but when I disconnect, I get the clarity I need.

Running Helps Me Take Care Of Myself

When things go sideways, running is the non-negotiable that helps keep ME well. I confess I’m not always the best at taking care of myself, so when I run, I get out in the fresh air and pump my heart rate. This is one of the best things I can do for myself when times are tough.

Running Helps Me Change My Focus

When I’m running, I don’t have to think about the tough times as much. Instead, I can turn my focus to running a race, or working on my form or pace. Running allows me to be somewhere else, which is helpful on the hardest days.

Running Is Something Just For Me

Caretakers and those going through trauma and other difficult situations often find themselves consumed with their current state of affairs. Running is one of those things that can be just for you. Personally, I cherish those small gifts, and it helps me get through the obstacles ahead.

Does running save your sanity?

*** Running is great, but it’s not a replacement for therapy or mental healthcare. If you are having a hard time or struggling, please reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. ***

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Comments

  1. Lisa @ Mile by Mile says

    February 22, 2023 at 9:40 am

    I definitely agree! Running gives me time to process whatever is on my mind. I like having that alone time to just think or zone out!

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      February 23, 2023 at 7:39 pm

      I love having that alone time. Love.

      Reply
  2. Catrina says

    February 22, 2023 at 11:50 am

    I love how you can express so well how I feel about running. Right now, things are a bit chaotic with my parents visiting, and I’m glad for my runs. They’re very short, as I’m still coming back from injury, but they help!

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      February 23, 2023 at 7:38 pm

      I’m here for you! And you’ll be back, I have no doubt!

      Reply
  3. Deborah Brooks says

    February 22, 2023 at 1:19 pm

    Running does give me much needed time to decompress while at the same time rev me up. I am lucky to have a group to run with and we feel like it’s group therapy sometimes in a good way

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      February 23, 2023 at 7:38 pm

      It’s just so great to have that outlet.

      Reply
  4. Darlene S Cardillo says

    February 22, 2023 at 8:46 pm

    Yes running really helps…
    the problem is that if you depend on it too much, what do you do when you can’t run??

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      February 23, 2023 at 7:37 pm

      Excellent question.

      Reply
  5. Jenny says

    February 23, 2023 at 6:20 pm

    Yes to all of this. I also really need my alone time, and I especially love running on trails so I can REALLY be alone. And like you, I bring my phone along but that’s really just for photos- I don’t look at texts or calls while I’m out there.

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      February 23, 2023 at 7:36 pm

      I get a little nervous on trails by myself, but the roads alone are just fine.

      I do sometimes answer texts if i’m out, and I’ll talk to my mother when I walk, because it’s when I have time to focus on her.

      Reply
  6. Debbie says

    February 23, 2023 at 10:22 pm

    All of this! Running is definitely my ME time and I need and cherish that.

    Reply

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Welcome to Runs With Pugs. My name is Jenn and this is the story of my love affair with running and finding myself through fitness. From C25K to marathon, from triathlon to SUP, from broken leg to the recovery journey... I'm sharing it all. I'm a wife and mother of one, living in NE Florida, in love with travel, adventure, and food. Oh. We have a grumble of pugs, too. Thank you for joining us! We're glad to have you along for the ride!

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I am not a doctor or medical professional, nor do I play one on the internet. This blog reflects my personal experiences on my own fitness and running journey, and the processes that work for me. Before you begin any exercise regiment, please consult your physician.
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