Running for Recovery: Simple exercise can help relieve stress, improve mood

Published Oct. 4, 2007
By Mildred M. Fitch
Substance Abuse Counselor

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- Following the emphasis on the importance of health awareness for military and civilians, an interesting article was found titled 4 Steps. The steps are: Claim Ownership, Ask for Help, Run for Recovery, and Enjoy your Freedom.
   You alone have to claim ownership of your ailment, affliction or addiction. The importance in claiming ownership of the current struggle is being honest to your self and others. This is seen sometimes with cancer or other afflictions when the family accepts the diagnosis but the patient does not. In regards to the addiction process, denial plays a big part. Only after ownership is accepted, can a person begin the road to recovery.
   Asking for help is the realization of how helpful a strong support system can be to share thoughts, struggles, and seek guidance. The importance is not going through the struggle alone.
   Running can free your mind and give a release from the everyday struggles you encounter. Studies have shown that running can improve your mood and is a great stress reliever. It is also suggested that running stimulates neurotransmitters such as epinephrine, dopamine, serotonin and beta-endorphins all of which reduce depression and anxiety and elevates mood. Running heightens the level of awareness and creativity and also can provide a platform to set goals and measure progress.
   It should be noted if running is too stringent due to age or health, walking also is a good tangible physical activity and can give the same results.
   All too often, we convince ourselves that we can not enjoy life in the midst of our struggles. Liberating ourselves from struggling with our ailments, afflictions or addictions can be extremely freeing and is important that we learn how to enjoy and celebrate life regardless of the circumstances. Set your goals and when your goals are achieved, an important milestone is accomplished. It is important to celebrate the accomplishment and recognize those who have helped you on your road to recovery.
   The Tinker Alcohol Drug Abuse and Prevention Treatment office is here to serve and help you. For more information, our office can be reached at 739-7141 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Additional information about Running 4 Recovery is available at www.running4recovery.com.