5 Truths about Running with Anxiety

Truths about running with Anxiety

Do you ever tell yourself you're going to go for a run and then don't because your scared, you get this massive turn in your tummy and you physically can't bring yourself to do the run that you wanted to do? This is how I feel about walking and running on my own.  I've shared recently a little insight into a few things I struggle with and at the age of 23 you would probably think by now I should have my sh*t together and be confident. This is not the case. Anxiety can affect anyone at any age, so today I am going to be sharing 5 truths about running with anxiety.

When people with anxiety say we are going to do something it sounds easy but when we come to do it the fear builds up in our mind, panic runs around like a maniac in our heads and we just close off/shut down and hideaway. 'She looks fine' people may say because she's out with friends 'she has no anxiety' sound familiar? people tend to say these and belittle people because they don't actually understand what the person is going through. Me for example, I can go to work by myself because it's a 'need' I need to work to earn money. I can go meet my friends because hell yes I have company so I'm not alone. It's the little things like going for a walk or a run on your OWN that hit you full speed with a plank of wood. 

Truth Number 1

Running on our own is scary. SCARY? you might ask. Yes, the thought of running on your own and people looking/staring at you makes you feel uncomfortable. Are you even wearing the appropriate clothing? you may well be but with eyes on you, you always second guess these things. It's important to know and I'm still trying to learn this myself is that people don't actually care that you are out and doing exercise if anything they envy you for doing something they can't be bothered to do or lack motivation to do. Love yourself.

Truth Number 2

It makes you feel great when you've gone for a run physically and mentally but it's hard to be in the mindset where you feel like you can do anything and so it becomes a chore. It becomes something we believe we can't achieve. This is why affirmations and grateful for points come in handy because if you read these every morning you will believe these. It's our limiting beliefs that have been structured and ingrained in our brains ever since we were little children. Love yourself.

Truth number 3

We can feel that we can't go for a run because of the way we look. I mean running is good exercise and can help you lose weight but if your not comfortable the way you are then why would you go out for the world to see your lumps and bumps shaking about? It's terrifying absolutely horrific, but do you know what? it's all in your head. It's ironic because I know the way I feel and how I can change it but it's just not that simple. It's a learning curve that I am currently on but I just need to love myself more and worry less. Love yourself.

Truth number 4

So I've mentioned people watching you when you run, but it's also panic when you run in a busy place. It needs to be quiet and hardly anyone around. It's great because most of us live in a coastal/countryside area however I cannot think of living in a city it would be so much harder for me. The trick is to go early morning before everyone else is awake or late evening when everyone else is getting cosy on the sofa! Believe in yourself.

Truth Number 5

It all comes down to fear and the need for support.  I was in a running group a few years ago called 'just jog' and it was brilliant, I met new people and ran with them, but running on your own is completely different. You have no chit chat, you have no one cheering you on, you have no finish line. On the upside listening to a good playlist and or a podcast is a brilliant thing to do to help, you are not only exercising but you are also learning and growing. Feed your brain with positivity. 

To Summarise

I have a passion for learning to improve myself, mentally, physically, financially and emotionally and although it is a struggle 1% improvements every day is going to help me get to where I need and want to be.

So remember you aren't alone feeling like this but if you can share with a friend and get their support even calling them while you are going for a run or a walk is super beneficial and can help get you out. Over time you should be able to have the confidence to rock your own boat but for now, it's the little steps.