Can Running Make You Happy?

So many people in the world, some love to run, some do it because they must! It is nothing new that keeping ourselves active helps us stay healthy. However, there are those people too who do not run, pretty sure, you would know some too. While physical health is a big concern here, but what if we told you that running is more than just about staying fit. It can make you happy! You feel a euphoric buzz after a long successful run!

Many call this the "runner's high"! It's not just a feeling; it's your body's way of making you feel good. When you push yourself during exercise, your body releases special chemicals called endorphins. The popular belief is that when you release endorphins you feel happy, and sometimes it can also make you forget about your pain. of the endorphins can make you feel happy and can even help you ignore pain. John Hopkins Medicine also notes of this "runner's high" and even notes that it offers mental health benefits due to the release of endorphins. This natural high makes exercise feel rewarding. It's like your body's own little reward system for staying active and healthy.

Endorphins are like tiny messengers that travel to your brain and make you feel good. They work a lot like painkillers but without the side effects. That's not all! Exercise also releases other happy chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. However, John Hopkins Medicine tells us that it is a short-lasting deeply euphoric state that is rare, not many athletes experience them. All these chemicals together create that amazing feeling you get after a tough workout, making you feel both relaxed and energized.

While endorphins do prevent your muscles from hurting, it cannot contribute to the feeling of euphoria. Research has shown endorphins do not pass the blood-brain barrier. Exercise does more than just build muscles; it also significantly impacts your brain and mood. When you exercise, your body releases endocannabinoid, which are neurotransmitters that help regulate many physiological and cognitive processes in the body. Unlike endorphins, they can easily reach your brain. These chemicals help reduce anxiety and create a feeling of calm. Additionally, regular exercise benefits your heart.

Your body has a special system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS) that helps keep things running smoothly, like your sleep and mood. Scientists discovered it while studying cannabis. The ECS is always working, even if you don't use cannabis. It uses three main parts: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. When an endocannabinoid connects with a receptor, it tells your body to do something, like reduce pain or fight inflammation. This system helps keep your body balanced.

Benefits Of Running

Exercising with other people can make you feel even better! It has many benefits as well!

Reduced Anxiety

Regular running can significantly lower anxiety levels by releasing calming chemicals in the brain. It provides a healthy outlet for stress, promoting a sense of peace and well-being.

Reduced Feelings of Depression

Running stimulates the production of mood-enhancing substances, effectively combating depressive symptoms. Consistent exercise can lift spirits and foster a more positive outlook on life.

Increased Memory and Focus: Aerobic exercise, like running, boosts blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function. This leads to improved memory retention and sharper focus, benefiting daily tasks.

Increased Flexibility and Improved Mobility

Running stretches and strengthens muscles, increasing overall flexibility and range of motion. Regular activity keeps joints lubricated, contributing to better mobility and agility.

Increased Immune System

Running enhances the body’s defense mechanisms, strengthening the immune system. Regular exercise boosts the production of antibodies and white blood cells, making you less susceptible to illness.

Improved Response to Insulin

Running improves insulin sensitivity, helping regulate blood sugar levels. This is especially beneficial for those at risk of or managing diabetes, promoting better metabolic health.

Weight Loss or Maintenance

Running burns calories, aiding in weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight. Consistent aerobic exercise helps regulate metabolism and builds lean muscle mass, contributing to a balanced physique.