People take up running for a variety of reasons. Maybe you were a high school athlete and running became an efficient way to stay in shape in later years. Maybe you just want to lose 10 pounds. Maybe you crave a winding trail and that endorphin rush after a long day of being cooped up in the office.

Regardless of your reasons for being a runner, it’s a great way to boost the mind/body connection and achieve peace. Studies show that regular exercise contributes to significant changes in your brain – like giving your memory a boost! The benefits are really endless.

But what about running as a form of recovery from substance abuse?

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Drug or alcohol addiction wreaks havoc on your body and your mind. One way to achieve sobriety in the long term is to embrace healthy lifestyle habits like an enjoyable exercise routine.

The addiction experts at Morningside Recovery encourage recovering addicts to adopt healthy habits like running to rehabilitate their bodies and their minds. Here are 5 reasons why running can be an effective method to help addicts recover from substance abuse.

Clear Your Mind

Running is a great way to push negative thoughts out of your head. You focus on the steady movement of your body and let worries or fears slip away.

Treat Your Body with Respect

During the recovery period, it’s important to treat your body with respect. You’ve likely done damage and it’s time to start appreciating what your body is capable of. Running helps you tune in to your body and begin the process of recovery.

Find New Meaning in Life

As you begin the recovery process, you often withdraw from those who led you down a dangerous path. As you establish new routines and branch out socially, running can help you get centered.

Learn New Values

Whereas some addicts tend to be selfish and prone to self injury, running can help put them on course to being better people. A regular, healthy routine can re-teach key concepts like treating others kindly and putting family first.

Endorphins!

And finally, that runner’s high that everyone talks about can be a convincing reason to start a running routine. Rather than seeking a drug fueled high, recovering addicts can experience the natural feeling of euphoria that comes after an intense workout.

Not every person in recovery should take up running – particularly addicts with a dual-diagnosis involving eating disorders or body image issues. Always speak with a doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. This article is not meant to diagnose or treat mental illness or addiction, but rather touch on why running can be a beneficial activity for anyone – including those recovering from substance abuse.