Running on Spite

A hard, hot, exhausted run, and the playlist that helped me come back down. In this episode I talk about using music to regulate my nervous system, and the line I keep coming back to: it’s okay not to be okay, but you don’t have to stay there.

This week’s try-it: build your own “come down” playlist, five songs from a time you felt truly relaxed.

Topics: persistent depressive disorder, depression, anxiety, running for mental health, music and mental health, nervous system regulation, coping strategies

If you’re struggling, call or text 988 (US) to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

No lesson this week. Just honesty. A week of anxiety, a run that didn’t fix it, and the pressure to perform even when I’ve got nothing. If you’re in a low place too, you’re not alone, and you don’t owe anyone a performance.

Topics: depression, anxiety, persistent depressive disorder, perfectionism, mental health, running for mental health

If you’re struggling, call or text 988 (US) to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

I got on the treadmill to run off a week of anxiety, missed meds, and hurricane stress, and I couldn’t do it. In this short, unfiltered episode, I talk about what happens when your go-to coping tool doesn’t work, and why running is therapeutic but it isn’t the therapy.

What I’m trying instead:

1. Say it out loud
2. “That didn’t work, and that’s okay”
3. Shrink the next step until it’s possible

Topics: anxiety, depression, persistent depressive disorder, running for mental health, coping strategies, burnout, overwhelm

If you’re struggling, you can call or text 988 (US) to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

I left my running shoes at home this morning, and it almost took me out. In this short episode, I talk about living with persistent depressive disorder and why the smallest inconvenience can feel huge when your baseline is already overwhelmed. It’s not that you’re “too sensitive.” You’re already full.

I also share 3 things I’m trying this week, and I want you to try them too:

1. Ask: “Is this the thing, or the last thing?”
2. Name your release valve (mine is running)
3. Build one buffer before you need it

💬 Answer the poll or Q&A: what’s YOUR release valve?

Topics: depression, persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), mental health, overwhelm, running for mental health, coping strategies

If you’re in a dark place, you can call or text 988 (US) to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Maybe I don't just run to cope with depression. One of last weeks runs actually turned into a life lesson. I think I have it together better than I give myself credit.....

Hey I'm Arielle and I was diagnosed with Persistent Depressive Disorder. One thing I've become aware of is slowing down helps to relive the pressure and some of my symptoms.

Hey, I'm Arielle. I was diagnosed with Persistent Depressive Disorder and running is one of the ways I manage my symptoms. Multiple times a week I run and keep a audio diary of my thoughts during this running meditation. Listening makes you my friend :).....