THE BEST PRESCRIPTION
As I sit at work today, I overhear people talking about how totally stressed out they are: about the job, their kids, their life in general. All are taking some sort of antidepressant; none of them exercise.
I just went through 6 weeks of very stressful work days, in addition to my increasing training schedule. Yet, for the most part I was able to stay calm and focused, getting done what needed to be done the best I could, in as little time as I had. Of course I had to make adjustments to my schedule, like getting up earlier, just to get the workouts in without the distraction of work.
I realize some out there who do exercise still need drug therapy for whatever reason, and I'm not criticizing. I'm talking about these people I work with who look awful, feel awful, and miss a lot of work or spend many breaks also outside smoking to relieve their stress.
For me, this is where running or triathlon have saved me. I, too, have had many stressful moments in my life, but it has always been comforting to have the sports that I love to fall back on and get me through the hard times. No drugs involved.
5 comments:
Now for me, there is nothing like a cigarette, shot of vodka, and a few Zanex after a good 10 mile run.. :)
Great post and so true. It makes me sad to see people withering away in stress and misery. It's amazing what some exercise and goals can do for your spirit!
Agree with you 100%. I guess the only thing about running as stress release is if you overdo it and running itself becomes stressful because you feel obligated to get those miles in, even when impractical. But it is typically a lot less expensive than pharmaceuticals, or, it at least allows them to work a little better with the endorphin and self-esteem boost.
Right ON my friend, right on....
only us who do it can understand the benefits of it, the stress and tension relief we find in it.
As you know, it has taken me through some difficult times as well. I can't imagine what I would have done if running was not in my life at the time.
Of course, there is always wine...
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