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Yon's Talk

Say Goodbye to Stress and Depression!
Overcoming Autumn Blues

Hello! I am Dr. Hong Ji-yeon of Yon Oriental Clinic.

It’s a drizzly Tuesday. The weather has a way of making us feel a bit sluggish, both in body and mind.

According to the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service, the number of patients visiting clinics for depression tends to be significantly higher in autumn compared to other seasons. Many people indeed complain of feeling down or lethargic—what we commonly call having the "Autumn Blues."

While there are various reasons for this, a major factor is the seasonal and environmental reduction in sunlight, which leads to decreased serotonin levels in the body.

Autumn blues and serotonin reduction
Start Running

What is an Easy Way to Overcome the Blues?

We cannot avoid the autumn season, so we must find a way to overcome this depression. Is there something we can easily practice? The first thing you can try is 'Running'!!

Since Kian84's full-course marathon challenge last year, the running population seems to have exploded. He mentioned that he started running to overcome panic disorder and saw a lot of improvement. In fact, I also started running a month ago as a hobby to relieve stress and maintain my health.

What kind of effects does running have that makes so many people enthusiastic about it? Some might ask what running has to do with depression or stress. Beyond the basic improvements in cardiopulmonary endurance and blood circulation, running has some truly amazing neuropsychiatric effects.

Running Effects

The Effects of Running
to Blow Away Stress and Depression

Running brings not only physical improvements
but also positive neuropsychiatric changes.

Stress reduction effects of running
POINT 01

Enhanced Concentration and Stress Reduction

While running, the brain focuses on the movement, blocking out extraneous thoughts and worries. It lowers stress sensitivity by reducing cortisol secretion.

POINT 02

Endorphins for Happiness

The 'runner's high' felt after running for more than 30 minutes is thanks to endorphins. It brings a feeling of happiness and pain-relieving effects, similar to the action of narcotics.

POINT 03

'The Body's Cannabis' Anandamide

Anandamide, released during running, produces positive short-term effects such as intense happiness, motivation, relaxation, appetite control, and pain relief.

POINT 04

Promoting BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)

Running promotes the secretion of BDNF, which helps create new brain cells, making it excellent for preventing learning and cognitive decline, as well as memory loss.

Doctor's Experience

The Positive Power of Running That Changes Daily Life

What I feel while running is that I truly stop having other thoughts and focus solely on the run. Once I complete my goal distance or time, I feel wonderful and stay energized throughout the day. A patient of mine once said, "Doctor, your energy is amazing!!" and I think running plays a part in that high energy level.

There is a quote I like from the movie 'Legally Blonde':
"Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy."
I think it’s the perfect line to express the happiness that running provides. The reason I am able to wake up early despite not being a morning person is entirely due to the happiness I feel after my runs.

For patients experiencing insomnia, depression, or psychological withdrawal, I always teach them lifestyle habits like, "Take a walk when the sun is out," or "Try to run a little bit without overexerting yourself." Many see their symptoms improve just from these lifestyle changes.

"If you find it difficult to build these habits on your own, or if your symptoms are persistent,
please don't struggle alone. Visit us and start with a consultation!
You might find that it's easier to treat than you think."