Of all the ways to get exercise for your body, running is one of the easiest and most popular. It’s easy to see why – you don’t need any special equipment, and you don’t need to learn any special techniques since running is natural. You simply get off your butt and run! What many people don’t realize however, is that running is not only great for your body, but it’s also a good way to boost your mental health as well.

When you get into a regular schedule of running, it can actually become quite relaxing. Of course if you’re not used to being physical, the first few times will make you sore as your body becomes accustomed to rigorous exercise, but do it enough times and not only will running become easier, but you will start to enjoy it. The best way to get into a running routine is to just do it everyday, even if all you can do is half a mile at first.

The best places to run for optimal mental relaxation is in quiet areas where there are a lot of trees and nature. A park with plenty of trees is excellent, or if you can run on a trail, that’s even better! Don’t run with an mp3 player or any distractions, just run and feel the rhythm of your own body and enjoy being out in nature. Don’t think about your everyday problems or stressful things at work or at home, just run and listen to the sounds of nature. Try it and you’ll see for yourself how relaxing it can be once you get used to it!