One of the reasons I started to run regularly over ten years ago was horrible insomnia. I would go to bed at 10 or 11 and fall asleep for a a couple of hours and then I would wake up and not be able get back to sleep. I would regurgitate the day and worry worry worry. When I finally started running a little most evenings I started our worrying about everything just like I did at night. The big difference was that by the end of the run all of that had flushed through me and I was at peace. Sometimes this process is so intense that I cannot even remember the run. I would come home, shower, and eat a light dinner. When I go to bed after running I fall asleep quickly and if I wake up during the night I can usually fall asleep again quickly. For me the benefits include:
Sleep benefits of Running:
- Creates a regular routine of fatigue and recovery
- Helps maintain a normal weight that improves sleeping
- Improved fitness that allows toleration of occasional intense activities without high stress
- Mind cleansing effect of sustained activity
One additional help that TRAIL RUNNING uniquely provides is the ability to recount a particular run - much light counting sheep - and follow the trail mentally while follow asleep. I have many of these runs that I use in this way. Usually I am asleep before I get to the first mile.
See a Playlist of 50 Great Trail Run Videos
