Article: Jogging High
People who jog often experience so called ‘jogging high’, or ‘runner’s high’ – but what does that actually mean – and what triggers it?
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During and after the exercise, your body produces a large amount of endogenous morphines, substances also known as “hormones of happiness”. These hormones are known to lead to a state of natural euphoria, making you feel really light, enthusiastic and happy – that’s why they are often simply referred to as “jogging high”.
Endorphins are opiate proteins which have pain-relieving and mood elevating effects on the body.
- What triggers jogging high?
Many experts argue that secretion of these hormones happens due to stimuli of your body and brain working together in a harmonious fashion. It has been tested and proven that endorphin levels actually increase with exercise.
Although jogging high is mostly associated with feelings of joy and relaxation, endorphins are generally known for their mood changing effect – which suggests the possibility of negative mood shifts as well.
- How long does jogging high last?
While jogging high can only last a couple of minutes, the great overall feeling sticks with you long after you’re through with exercising.
This is the main reason it is often compared with an orgasm (believe it or not).
- Can jogging high be addictive?
Absolutely! Unlike other addictions, this is a perfectly healthy and natural way to get a daily doze of your favorite buzz, without using alcohol and drugs.
It can be the best motivation to actually make you want to work out, because you know that when you’re done, you’re going to feel really great for the rest of the day!
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To sum it up – runners high is a term used to describe your body and mind going through a process of physical and emotional shift, which ultimately results in a change of state.
Exact feelings related to this phenomenon are still not clearly defined, as it is impossible to generalize them, because individuals tend to experience and describe them differently…
This is how some runners describe it:
“It’s as if there is no one around me. This is mainly when I am running outside, not on my treadmill. Almost like tunnel vision. Such a rush!”
“It’s like an actual chemical change in my brain where I just feel absolutely invincible and incredibly strong…”
“I just feel energized . It’s like I just feel myself smiling and wanting to put my hands in the air and shout woo hoo!!! – you know?”
Want to experience jogging high yourself? – Start Jogging Today!
