Life can be overwhelming, especially if you live in a bustling city like Manila or Cebu. The fast-paced environment, heavy traffic, constant nagging from your boss, and even the anticipation of paying your monthly bills contribute to stress and burnout, which can sometimes be too much to handle.
But amid the urban chaos, people remained resilient and focused on the positive side of things. Running became their escape; they immersed themselves in the mental clarity that the sport had to offer and stayed active despite the odds. Running diverted their attention to being healthy, gaining new friends, and a hobby that offers more than just sweat, medals, and podium finishes.
Escape the Grind
Running is a breath of fresh air that allows people to momentarily unpack their emotional loads. Instead of diving into a rabbit hole, runners focus on their breathing, rhythm, and the fact that, just like life, they put one foot in front of the other to move forward.
Anxiety Buster
Sports and other physical activities trigger the release of endorphins (not the Asics shoes), or the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones. These chemicals decrease the possibility of anxiety taking over and elevate the mood. A good 30-minute jog can significantly lower stress levels, making us happier, more relaxed, and more open to challenging the day ahead.
Connect with Nature
Running through what little green space remains in capital cities is a refreshing option for runners. They can take it up a notch by going trail running, particularly in nearby provinces. Here, they can get in touch with Mother Nature, inhale clean oxygen, exhale bad vibes, and offer a new perspective where stress melts away while maintaining a slow and steady pace.
Mental Detox
Running is such a primitive sport that people can do it “nude.” At some point, some runners leave their phones, smartwatches, and heart rate monitors at home. They concentrate on the purity of the sport, where it’s just them, the road, and their final stop.
Run your emotions
People run when they’re happy. People run more when they’re sad. People run fast when they’re angry. People turn into runners when they are strong. Strong people feel invincible when they run.
Life is better when you’re running.
Disappear from the world and the stress it creates. Clear your mind, calm your soul. Forget about your work, your responsibilities, and your problems. When life moves a bit too fast, go for a run.
