Good morning,
Did that email title get your attention? LOL Here’s my INFO Overload Nerd alert! I’ve got some weird (but super interesting) science for you in this email.
As a coach, I’m always curious about the reasons why people do or do not make embrace their opportunities to make simple changes to build their boundaries, and I coach my clients to find the right motivation that helps them identify successful strategies to build sustainable routines – so whenever I get the chance, I ask them so I can better understand their perspectives.
Especially the ones who have been successful at long term exercise routines for mental balance and who prioritize their activity for decades as a method of self-care that works for them. Do you know that some people just do this without thinking, or planning….it’s like breathing. It’s automatic and just the way they live their day to day.
Almost every one of the active older people (70s, 80s, and beyond!) I talk to say they get in a workout most days of the week because it makes them feel better mentally.
Have you ever worked out and then felt loose, relaxed, and generally awesome afterward?
This isn’t like the euphoric “runner’s high” we always hear about.
This is a more chill vibe – the calm, content, and centered feeling you can get after a good workout. Does it make you feel accomplished and healthier because you were intentionally good to your body?
That’s actually one of my favorite things about exercise … and guess what?
Scientists now say it’s NOT from endorphins! They believe it’s caused by a natural hormone that’s similar to cannabis.
When you exercise, your body releases endocannabinoids — chemicals that are naturally produced in your body.
Endocannabinoids can move easily between the blood-brain barrier (unlike endorphins, which can’t easily pass through).
Once these endocannabinoids are in your brain, they can reduce anxiety and promote calmness.
→ In fact, our bodies have an entire endocannabinoid system that affects our mood, pain levels (as in helping to lower them), and even our central and peripheral nervous systems.
Scientists are learning more and more about how exercise and moving our bodies work to trigger this system – and they are also studying how it plays a role in our sense of well-being and quality of life as we get older.
Pretty fascinating stuff.
And it’s just one more reason to make sure you get in your workout, walk, or body movement in sometime today! 🙂
Here at TRUE FOR YOU WELLNESS we’re all about creating REAL sustainable transformation and change … changes that you incorporate into your lifestyle. This is so much more than a “diet” that is only about a temporary restriction of calories and an increase of exercise that makes you miserable. How can we help you ID strategies for your improved health and wellness without going on a diet? Reach out to us to find out more about our free and affordable options.
Make it a great day!
Stacy Malone, CHC
www.trueforyouwellness.com
REFERENCES:
www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-truth-behind-runners-high-and-other-mental-benefits-of-running
www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0098299718300359
