Intentional Running for mood management.

I approach running to manage mood and anxiety in a similar way: define the problem, then set an intention. What do I need to solve? As hard as running is, it is relaxing for the mind. It opens and allows clearer perspective and allows you to get in control of the anxiety, lack of confidence, or whatever it is that weighs you down. I feel like a superstar when I run. Out there, running in the woods, over hills, rocks, roots, as graceful as an antelope (or so I’ve been told by strangers who encounter me, true story!). Strong, bold, wild. Unstoppable. These feelings trickle in and leave you no choice but to upgrade your mood.

Running is hard, I think this is why it is such a powerful tool. It You need to work through some discomfort to reach your end goal, as in life.

Don’t avoid hills. They are the perfect opportunity to show yourself how strong you are. Have an issue or an insecurity? Define it, then crush it on the hill. Equate the physical push you feel to the determination you give the issue at hand. Example: Upcoming job interview—Prepare for it on the hill. Visualize it.

Crush it!