https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/in-pictures-44440369
This article says it all. If it's reported by the BBC, it's gotta be true right?
There is no doubt that running is one of the best form of exercises available to us. The US Surgeon General and all doctors agree that exercise for at least 30 minutes, 3 days a week is the minimum to maintain good PHYSICAL health.
However, in the Skid Row Running Club, we've seen how the act of running itself can have tremendous impacts on a person's mental health. Many people who suffer from addiction to alcohol and/or drugs are physiologically dependent on those substances, until something can replace it and their body can learn a new set of habits.
Those recovering from homeless and addiction also suffer bouts of low-self esteem and confidence. Running helps with that as well. When you show up consistently, you improve. Then you start setting goals for yourself and when you reach them, then you set bigger goals.
The runner's high is real, it's natural and it has no negative side effects.
More importantly, it's free!