Great news, exercise can make you happy!
Endorphins are more than just a buzzword to sell chocolate, and there is a more waist friendly way to release them …… moderate exercise.
Endorphins are defined as a hormone like substance that are produced in the brain and whose function is to act as the body’s natural painkillers.
During exercise, these endorphins are released and this brings on feelings of intense happiness and produces a state of general wellbeing. Runners often describe a feeling of euphoria while they are running, known as “runners’ high”.
Studies have shown that endorphins produced from vigorous exercise can actually be strong enough to mask pain!
Researchers have also found that people suffering from mild depression recover more rapidly if they are physically active. When people say their going for a walk to “clear their head”, that is in fact what happens. A simple 30 minute walk will trigger the brain to release endorphins in to the body. Add to this the boost in the feel good hormone serotonin and vitamin D when you exercise outside in the sunshine.
Physical activity is also strongly linked with good mental health as people age.
So what kind of exercise do you need to do?
Running, jogging, walking, aerobics, skipping, cycling ……………..anything at all that gets so heart rate up.
So stick your runners on and start smiling!
Terry Corkery
Fitness Instructor
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