Today. Today I ran 9.17km

So today was slightly epic. I turned all my negative energy into running the furthest I have run before. Yes I walked a fast walk in between clocking 2km distances, but hey - I got there, and it was great! 9.17km in 65 minutes!

It's no secret that running is my therapy to anxiety and depression, hence the main reason why I am running for the Mental Health Foundation in the half marathon in October (Bournemouth Marathon Festival). The other is that my Nana had dementia.  The charity are committed to helping people lead mentally healthier lives, and at some point over the course of your life, that probably will include you. 

I read a lot of blog posts and forums all the time that deal with the subject of exercise and mental health, and to be quite honest with you, I think it differs so much from opinion to opinion, that it's possibly more stress than it's worth trying to keep up! It's obvious that regular exercise is good for your physical health; reducing the risk of cancer, heart disease and strokes. But when it comes to mental health it's a little more fuzzy round the edges. Exercise can offer the feeling of control over your body that is seemingly otherwise lost from other aspects of your life. It also allows you some precious time in which to clear your mind, be at complete peace with yourself and to feel empowered. 

I love this post by Amy Clover - AKA StrongInsideOut. It's pretty brilliant. Check it out and be inspired.

But if you're ever in doubt, remember this: YOU ARE WONDER WOMAN. 

(Image credit: Helen McCarty)