Is the "Runner's High" Real? - How Exercising Affects Our Brain as Well as Our Body
We know that exercise has a positive impact on our body, but the benefits to exercise do not end there. Exercise can have a very positive effect on our mind as well. If you're feeling down, stressed, or anxious, a good burst of exercise might be just what you need.
I'm sure you have heard the term "Runner's High" before. It's that feeling of euphoria that one gets after completing a run. It doesn't have to be running though. The same is true with any exercise, whether it be a brisk walk, yoga, cycling, swimming, or whichever physical activity you choose to partake it.
When you exercise, your body releases a chemical called endorphins. What these chemicals do is interact with the pain receptors in your brain, and when they do, they reduce your perception of pain. Endorphins also cause a general feeling of euphoria which is similar to the effect of morphine. This can cause your spirits to lift, your outlook on life to improve, and take away stress and anxiety.
When produced, endorphins act as both an analgesic and a sedative which lower the perception of pain. This helps lead to that overall feeling of well-being. Endorphins are manufactured throughout the body but mainly in the brain and spinal cord. This is why when we exercise, although we might feel physically tired, our mental status is improved and heightened.
People are of the belief that exercise is a good thing for the body, which it is, but it should not be underestimated as a way to improve our mental health as well. It doesn't have to be strenuous exercise to feel the benefits. A brisk walk is just as good as a hard run.
The benefits of regular exercise include reduction of stress, improves sleep, improved self-esteem, warding off feelings of anxiety and depression. These are on top of the obvious physical benefits of exercise. It's also a domino effect. If we reduce the stress and anxiety in our lives, other parts of our lives will improve because of that.
So yes, the runner's high is a real thing. It's your body receiving a dose of what amounts to a drug that improves our lives in many ways. The good thing is that this particular drug isn't addicting and we have a limitless supply of it inside of us.
All Images from Pixabay.
I'm just going to run. Yeah, I'm an addict.
Run strong! :)
I started cycling a year ago and I've been riding around 200 miles a week recently. I can really say it has a huge positive impact on my wellbeing, both physical and mental. Anyone who is suffering from depression or other states of mental anguish should try it in my opinion.
I agree completely. I run and cycle and it's amazing how good you feel after a run or bike ride. I actually think that exercise should be prescribed like medication is for stress and anxiety.
I 100% agree, only problem is that it can be hard to find the motivation to get of the house and do exercise when you're depressed, its a vicious circle.
You're right about that for sure. Maybe more of a support group kind of activity. I definitely believe exercise should have more of a role in the treatment of mental health issues.
The runners high is very real. As a daily runner I have only experienced it twice in my life..The euphoria is like nothing else.
It certainly is real. Even if it isn't pure euphoria, there is still that overall feeling of happiness after a run. It's making me look forward to my run later today even though my legs aren't feeling the best. :)
It's cool that the body is its own pharmacy!
Yes it is, and we should try to incorporate it more into our health strategy instead of just prescribing meds.
Good day I've followed you and I like your publications, follow me and we help each other
I have exercising for a long time. I can clearly see the difference between me and the folks i grew up with who do not have my lifestyle.
Yes, there are very easy to spot differences.
If we go for a run, and do some nice stretching afterwards and then end it with a cold shower, then you will feel like a champ!
Exactly right. Good point too, not to stretch BEFORE a run. Might be my next post. :)
I think I stretch half the time as my run took.
Swimming is a good exercise to, one feels rejuvenated
Yes it is. Combines the exercise with the feeling of the cool water. A great activity.
YES I AGREE, i enjoy swimming though i have never figured out how to float without having the sensation of drowning. lol
Getting high on running. Must try. :)
Try it! You'll like it. :)
I ran trackback in the day, also ran with my volleyball team, and not once do I remember a high out of it. Fast forward to joining Orangetheory and winning my first few challenges, then placing top 3rd during the marathon challenge, to lastly running a 5k for the first time and that did it.
The runners high came years later, but I feel it now and now I get why people run so many 5k, 10k, half and full marathons. Its addicting running with that many people.