The Big Problem With Running For Your Mental Health - This Messy Happy

Intro: This is a quick summary of The Big Problem With Running For Your Mental Health from This Messy Happy. It’s a great watch — we’re breaking it down so you can try the workout today. Be sure to check out the full video for all the details.

Key Points:

• Running gives a short‑term “runner’s high” but on its own only treats symptoms of stress or anxiety, not the underlying cause.
• Adding mental‑training tools—metacognition, mindfulness, and stoicism—lets you use runs to re‑wire thought patterns.
• Three easy‑to‑implement session formats turn a regular run into a mental‑health practice: a Mnemonic Mindset Run, a Positives Run, and a Flow‑State Run.

Workout Example:

1. Mnemonic Mindset Run (≈2 km easy aerobic run) – Choose a trigger word that snaps you back when thoughts wander (e.g., “hands”). As you run, silently repeat the word each time you notice tension or distraction; the word redirects focus to a specific running cue (hand position, foot strike, breathing).
2. Positives Run – While on a normal run, note one thing you’re grateful for each kilometre (health, scenery, a good split). Write it down after the run or keep a mental list; this shifts the mental balance toward positivity.
3. Flow‑State Run – During a comfortable base run, when you sense the mind drifting, gently increase the pace for 10‑20 seconds, then return to your original speed. The brief speed‑play keeps you anchored in the present and trains you to re‑focus quickly.

Closing Note: Try one of these runs this week, tweak the distances or trigger words to fit your own pace, and watch how your mental‑health benefits grow. You can easily customize each session in the Pacing app – happy running!

References

• The Big Problem With Running For Your Mental Health - YouTube (YouTube Video)

Workout - The Mindful Mix-Up

• 10min @ 6'30''/km
• 2.0km @ 6'15''/km
• 3 lots of:
  • 4min @ 6'00''/km
  • 20s @ 5'30''/km
• 1.0km @ 6'15''/km
• 5min @ 7'00''/km

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