Are you guys familiar with the term "runner's high"? You can run your way to a better mood

[iloverachel]

The "runner's high" is a euphoric sensation that some people experience during or after intense exercise, often characterized by feelings of pleasure, reduced anxiety, and a sense of well-being.

Here's what we know about it:

• Endorphins and Beyond: While often attributed to the release of endorphins ("endorphin rush"), recent research suggests that other neurochemicals, particularly endocannabinoids, may play a more significant role.
  • Endocannabinoids: These are naturally produced compounds in the body that interact with the same receptors as THC in cannabis. They can produce feelings of relaxation, euphoria, and pain relief.
• Factors that May Contribute:
  • Intensity and Duration: A runner's high is more likely to occur during prolonged or intense exercise.
  • Individual Variability: Not everyone experiences a runner's high. Factors like genetics, fitness level, and individual sensitivity to these neurochemicals likely play a role.
• Research:
  • Research on the runner's high is ongoing.
  • Scientists are still investigating the exact mechanisms and the role of different neurotransmitters in this phenomenon.
    
    Let's get RUNNING!! (or any other kind of exercise)
    

Important Considerations:

• The runner's high is not guaranteed: It's not something everyone experiences, and it may not occur every time you exercise.
• Focus on overall well-being: The primary goal of exercise should be to improve your overall health and well-being, not solely to chase a runner's high.

 

[onthefence]

I learned that what I was actually chasing was hypoglycemia when I was running. The runners high is hard to achieve and doesn't always occur when you want it to. But running is good for your physical and mental health if you use it responsibly.

 

[WatchmeBurn]

Has never worked for me.

 

[RosebyAnyName]

I can confirm that it has worked for me. Instead of running I do HIIT for one hour, three times a week. I have a noticeable positive change in mood when I'm working out regularly.
The only problem is getting myself to go regularly. If I'm already in a down mood, I struggle to force myself to do anything, so sometimes intense exercise feels inaccessible.

 

[HopingOnaMiracle]

I have tried running and even on scheduals but i NEVER get any good feelings. Not even after workout. I do workouts once every week in a group because I'm supposed to do it

 

[whiskeyblanket]

Has never worked for me.

Same. Thought I was the only one.

 

[WatchmeBurn]

Same. Thought I was the only one.

Apparently there haven't been any proper studies of its prevalence (why not!?), but this one article says it's quite rare and that most people will never get it.

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-truth-behind-runners-high-and-other-mental-benefits-of-running

Surveys have revealed runner's high to be rather rare, however, with a majority of athletes never experiencing it. "Indeed, many distance runners feel merely drained or even nauseated at the end of a long race, not blissful," says Linden.

 

[endofeverything]

i never got it, running made me feel actively awful, both during and after, both physically and mentally. doesn't matter anyway as i am no longer able to run.