EXERCISE: When running makes you anxious, could your adrenals be to blame?

"How come when I run for exercise it makes me feel anxious? Could it have something to do with the adrenals? When I lift weights or cycle I don't feel this way."

Hi Richard, your question is an interesting one, and one that I suspect many other people can relate to.

After all, running is a POPULAR form of exercise, but it's not for everyone. Some people find that it makes them feel ANXIOUS, while others find it to be a great way to RELIEVE STRESS.

So, why might running make some people feel anxious? One possibility, as you said, is that it has something to do with the ADRENALS. The adrenals are two small GLANDS that are located above the kidneys. They are responsible for producing HORMONES that help the body respond to STRESS.

When you run, your body goes into a state of stress. This is because your body is working hard to KEEP UP with the demands of running. As a result, your adrenal glands release hormones such as CORTISOL and ADRENALINE.

These hormones can cause a number of physical symptoms, such as an INCREASED HEART RATE, breathing rate, and blood pressure. They can also cause mental symptoms, such as ANXIETY and RESTLESSNESS.

So, Is it POSSIBLE that the anxiety you feel when you run is caused by the release of stress hormones from your adrenal glands?

Maybe.

Nevertheless, it's important to note that this is just ONE POSSIBLE EXPLANATION. There are a number of OTHER FACTORS that could contribute to running-induced anxiety, such as:

• PHYSICAL FITNESS: If you're not very fit, running can be a very challenging activity. This can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. But since you lift weights and cycle, this might not be your problem.
• PACING: If you're running too fast, it can put a lot of stress on your body and mind. This can also lead to feelings of anxiety.
• ENVIRONMENT: Running in a crowded or noisy environment can also make some people feel anxious.
• PERSONAL HISTORY: If you have a history of anxiety, you may be more likely to experience anxiety when running.

If you find that running makes you feel anxious, there are a number of things you can do to try to reduce your anxiety. Here are a few tips:

• Start slowly and gradually increase your speed and distance.
• Run in a relaxed and comfortable pace.
• Run in a quiet and peaceful environment.
• Listen to calming music or podcasts while you run.
• Focus on your breath and try to relax your muscles.
• Take breaks when you need them.

If you try these tips and you're still feeling anxious when you run, it's important to talk to your doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that is contributing to your anxiety.

CONCLUSION:

So, Richard, to answer your question directly, it is possible that the anxiety you feel when you run is caused by the release of stress hormones from your adrenal glands. However, there are a number of other factors that could also contribute to running-induced anxiety.

If you find that running makes you feel anxious, there are a number of things you can do to try to reduce your anxiety. If you try these tips and you're still feeling anxious, talk to your doctor.

Thought-provoking questions:

• Have you ever experienced anxiety when running?
• What do you think are the main causes of running-induced anxiety?
• What are some tips for reducing anxiety when running?

Visit » RELEASE THE TENSION, FINE YOUR INNER ZEN! You might find what you need.

Faithfully Yours, Gary

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