The Runner's High; Is it Real? Here's your Answer...
“Discovering the Secrets Behind the Elusive Runner’s High”
The euphoric feeling experienced during or after a long run is known as the “runner’s high,” and it is a sought-after state among runners. But what does this phrase actually mean, and how can one get to this happy place? To comprehend the significance and workings of the runner’s high, let’s explore the science underlying it.
Fundamentally, the runner’s high is a physiological reaction brought on by a number of variables after extended aerobic exertion. The production of endorphins, which are endogenously produced natural painkillers and mood enhancers, is one of the main factors contributing to this phenomena. Running is an intense physical activity that causes your body to produce more endorphins, which reduce pain and tension and promote feelings of happiness and wellbeing.
The runner’s high is also influenced by other neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, in addition to endorphins. Dopamine, sometimes known as the “reward” neurotransmitter, contributes to motivation and pleasure, giving runners a feeling of satisfaction and success following a strenuous run. Serotonin, which is well-known for controlling mood, encourages positive emotions like happiness and contentment.
The science of getting the runner’s high is figuring out what makes it happen most of the time. Although every person’s experience is unique, a number of elements can raise the possibility of entering this happy state:
Intensity and Duration:
The runner’s high is more likely to occur when moderate-to high-intensity aerobic activity is performed over an extended length of time. Exercises that cause endorphins and other neurotransmitters linked to euphoria to be released, such as long-distance running and severe interval training, can do this.
Consistency:
Consistent exercise increases the body’s capacity to release endorphins, control neurotransmitter levels, and increase endurance. Training consistently over an extended period of time can increase the frequency and intensity of runner’s high.
Focus & Mindfulness:
During exercise, being mindful of your body’s feelings and maintaining mental focus can intensify the effects of the runner’s high. The whole experience can be improved by using mindfulness techniques like staying in the present moment, deep breathing, and positive visualization.
Science-wise, research has explored the factors that underlie the runner’s high. The Journal of Experimental Biology has published a study that examined the function of endorphins and endocannabinoids—natural substances that resemble cannabis—in causing euphoric effects after vigorous exercise.
Additionally, research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has demonstrated the connection between the brain’s reward circuits and the endocannabinoid system, providing insight into the role that chemicals produced by exercise play in improving mood and relieving pain.
In a 2008 study published in Cerebral Cortex, Boecker et al. examined the opioidergic pathways in the human brain connected to the runner’s high. The study discovered that a key component of the pleasurable benefits of exercise is endorphins, more especially opioid receptors.
In the Journal of Experimental Biology, Raichlen et al. (2012) conducted a study that connected the runner’s high experience to the endocannabinoid system and examined how exercise influences endocannabinoid signaling in humans and other species.
The runner’s high is essentially the result of a complex interaction between psychological and physiological processes that lead to a feeling of happiness and contentment. You may increase your chances of witnessing this thrilling phenomena by learning the science behind it and implementing essential components into your running regimen, such as intensity, consistency, and mindfulness. So put on your running shoes, head out onto the trails, and relish the adventure of discovering the mysteries of the runner’s high. To get started on this journey, check out this book:
The Beginner’s Guide To Running:
Start Your Fitness Journey on The Right Foot, From Couch to 5k Running and it’s Transformative Benefits
Imagine combining this with the benefits of coloring. Imagine getting off of work “Stressed Out” to the MAX. Then going on a Euphoric run. Then taking a long therapeutic shower. Afterwards, eating a fulfilling and tasty meal. Finally, pulling out your coloring book with calming music playing in the background. Great Plan!!
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