Running is My Therapy

Relieve Stress and Anxiety, Fight Depression, Ditch Bad Habits, and Live Happier

By: Scott Douglas, Alison Mariella Désir

Narrated by: Stephen R. Thorne

Length: 6 hrs and 52 mins

Publisher's summary

There's no other book like this. Longtime running writer Scott Douglas marshals expert advice (including his own, cultivated from more than 100,000 miles of personal experience), and a growing body of scientific research to show how running can make us happier.

How? Everyone knows that running builds stronger muscles and a healthier heart; science now shows it also helps develop a healthier brain. For those struggling with depression and anxiety, a consistent running routine can enhance the mental-health benefits of talk therapy, antidepressants, and cognitive behavioral therapy. The key to running's therapeutic power lies in its lasting physiological effects, inducing changes in brain structure and chemistry that other forms of exercise don't. Thanks to the body's release of natural pain-relievers that includes the best mood boost in all of sports.

Running is my therapy is no longer just a mantra for seasoned runners; with science behind him, Douglas presents proven methods so that we can all use running to improve our mental health and live happier - in and out of running shoes.

©2018 Scott Douglas; Foreword copyright 2018 by Alison Mariella Désir (P)2018 Tantor

Critic reviews

"Everyone who cares about mental health needs to read Running Is My Therapy. Scott Douglas lays out all the evidence for running as an effective intervention for depression and anxiety in a way that's both inspiring and practical." (Sepideh Saremi, LCSW, founder of Run Walk Talk therapy)

Performance & motivation!

I have been running for 3D case also, I have been diagnose with rheumatoid arthritis & fibromyalogy and I can say running is my therapy! I just started running for the first time after I had my first baby. I remember that was 20 minutes and I was confused about the way I felt all day just a great energy and not pain at all. I'm glad for this book and for all the right info it's available now! Thanks for all the work you put in your books!
Rosa Mendenhall.

The title says it all

This book was exactly what I was looking for. It explained why running makes me feel so much better, how others use running as a coping strategy, and when to get worried if you think you're using running as a crutch.

Good for the wondering mind

The run on sentence I feel this is fit perfectly into my wondering mind. It was refreshing to know that others out there are getting what I am from my running. Having gone through a lot in the last 7 years and struggling with depression most my life, it was nice to hear all of what was said in this book. I’m not alone in running bettering my life or even saving it. Good listen for those needing a little pat on the back you’re doing the right thing.

very insightful

helped me keep my sox day a week run going. will listen again of need motivation.

Great Listen

Provide great insight on mental health and running. It provided many aha moments and gave me some insight into myself, my mental health and why I run.

Extremely therapeutic!

Captivating! A must read for anyone who suffers from depression or knows someone who suffers from depression; basically everyone!

"To be a Runner you Just have to Run!"

Such a book was needed in today's culture. I loved that the book delivers scientific facts, personal summaries and interviews from mental health professionals. Also, I especially appreciate that the author leaves managing your care to you. No judgement not an advocate for or against medicine. Work of Art! Thank you friend

Scientific Analysis of Running on mental health

Loved the book. It was scientific but not too deep to understand mental health effects of depression and anxiety along with the effect of running, antidepressants and alcohol. The hardest part to gain the benefits of running is to take the first step for yourself

keep going, but know your limits

I found this book very useful for underlining why it's so important for me to run regularly. I get a lot of comfort from knowing that there are people who also suffer from depression and run for the mental health benefits. I have a good foundation of diet and sleep, however the run truly adds a extra quality to my life. I am very grateful and thankful that I am able to run, and that I have the opportunities to do it regularly.

This is a great book which consolidated what I already know about the positive impact of running on mental health. But I did get a lot of new information, and I found the many anecdotes from other runners very interesting.

Okay

I’ve been listening to running/endurance exercise books lately. I listened to this one even though I do not suffer from chronic depression (had severe situational depression after cancer surgery/treatment and tried Wellbutrin for a couple of months…getting off the Wellbutrin was worse than the depression but it did give me something to focus on for several months). I can’t recommend it for individuals that are not depressed but can how helpful it might be for individuals that struggle with depression.