5 Reasons to get Running

by Mariel Watkins

Well, it's about that time again. The weather is getting nicer and those "summer bodies" are out in full force. All winter, you talked about working out, and maybe you even started... But then life happened, and the workouts got fewer and farther between. It's time for that to change! Here are 5 great reasons why you should always make time in your life to run!

1. TAKE SOME “ME” TIME.

In such a busy, social-media-driven world, we can often forget to take time in our day to focus on ourselves without any distractions. Running is the perfect way to put your phone away, get some time to yourself, and “get away.”

2. MEDITATE.

Running clears your mind, allowing you to focus on the present and spend time away from those thoughts of work, money, family, and life, in general, that clutter our minds constantly. It's helpful to listen to music that will calm and encourage you while you run. 

3. TAKE STEPS CLOSER TO A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE.

Be active and get your heart working. Cardiovascular exercise is essential to a well-rounded healthy lifestyle. By running, you're getting one of the best total body, cardio workouts and doing so much for your overall health.

4. BUILD UP YOUR MENTAL STRENGTH.

Maybe on your first run you only run half of a mile, and walk the other half. That is absolutely okay. By getting through those first days and weeks, it is inevitable that you will be able to run longer and longer distances. It takes mental strength and discipline, which is built with each step that you take determined to run that extra mile.

5. GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO BE ONE WITH NATURE.

Run through your neighborhood or on a trail at a park, and pull energy from the beautiful living things around you. Enjoy them. We tend to spend so much time cooped inside of our homes and offices that running gives you a chance to enjoy the outdoors for a few minutes each day. Soak up some of the sun and increase not only your Vitamin D levels, but overall happiness in your mood. 

PUT ON YOUR RUNNING SHOES AND START WORKING TOWARDS THAT FIRST MILE!