Have you ever felt your body becoming feather-light, the pain fading away, and the feeling of being invincible after a run? If this sounds strange to you, we are talking about the euphoria that a runner’s high brings. And if you have experienced it, have you ever wondered what’s happening inside your body that creates such a feeling?
Although exercising releases endorphins and makes you feel good, a runner’s high takes this feeling to a whole new level. When you reach that particular stage during a long-distance run, your body produces two types of chemicals—endorphins and endocannabinoids. These chemicals, when released into your central nervous system, make you feel calm as well as euphoric. A runner’s high also triggers the release of dopamine—your body’s neurotransmitter responsible for pleasure.
“Psychologically, runners may experience euphoria, a feeling of being invincible, a reduced state of discomfort or pain, and even a loss in sense of time while running,” says Jesse Pittsley, President of the American Society for Exercise Physiologists. In simple words, your body produces its own chemicals similar to a class of drugs called opioids to counteract the pain and stress of running.
A study by the University of Heidelberg suggests that the endocannabinoids released during exercise can have an impact similar to that of cannabis. While experiencing a runner’s high is one of the best ways to relax after a long run, the habit of running daily provides several mental health benefits too. Let’s take a look at the benefits of running.
Stress management
Both acute and chronic stress adversely affect your mental health. Acute stress is short-term and can be triggered by anything—from bumping into an old flame to losing a bet with your friend. Your brain, heart and immune system work in tandem to deal with whatever trigger that got you so worked up. On the other hand, long-term or chronic stress is worse. It is usually caused by the everyday pressures of work and family or traumatic events. If left unchecked, it can result in serious issues like a weakened immune system, high blood pressure and anxiety.
One of the best ways to get rid of stress is to start running. It is an incredibly effective stress-relieving activity, which clears the mind by stimulating the release of endorphins—the ‘happiness hormone’. One benefit of running is that it’s a natural solution to the ‘flight or fight’ reaction when dealing with a complicated situation. It allows you to zone out and rebalance yourself after a stressful day.
A calmer state of mind
Running can have a hugely positive effect on your state of mind. You feel calmer because the chemicals released during and after the activity can boost your mood. Many people with anxiety have discovered that after a running session, there is a decrease in the activity of the tensed muscles. They are also less jittery and hyperactive. Running outdoors and close to nature can especially be a good antidote for anxiety and a cluttered mind, helping to attain a calmer state of mind.
Running is an effective stress-relieving activity that stimulates the release of endorphins, also known as the “happiness hormone.” Engaging in running allows individuals to clear their minds and cope with stress.
Running has a positive impact on one’s state of mind by reducing the activity of tensed muscles and promoting a sense of calmness.
Running not only improves physical health but also boosts brainpower and productivity. Running also helps overcome fatigue, allowing individuals to concentrate better on their work.
Running as a regular part of one’s routine can lead to a stress-free life and improved mood, which can positively impact sleep quality.
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