Feel Good Drug

I guess you could say I am addicted. First thing every morning I need to have it. Afterward, everything is good—

Real Good

Now I can face the day.

Every evening, I need another fix to 'smooth things out'. Now I am ready for a good night’s sleep.

If you know me or read my blog regularly, you know I am talking about my daily exercise routine. When I exercise, my body releases chemicals called endorphins. “Endorphins are among the brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters, which function to transmit electrical signals within the nervous system. They are morphine-like chemicals produced by the body that help diminish pain while triggering positive feelings. Endorphins are sometimes referred to as the brain's "feel-good" chemicals, and are the body's natural painkillers.”(1)

For a long time I did not know meditation also releases endorphins. I guess that is why I became hooked on meditation many years ago. I also read chocolate and chili peppers will release them. Who would have ‘thunk it’?

I do not mind being called an “endorphin junky.” I could be called a lot worse.

Once again, it shows that we need to be stewards of our mental, emotional and physical health.

Living with Kennedy's Disease requires me to be at my best every day. I had my fix for the day. How about you?

(1)    www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=55001

Photo:  https://www.fastcompany.com/3025957/

I’m addicted

Okay, I admit it, I am addicted to endorphins. 

Wikipedia explains that Endorphins ("endogenous morphine") are endogenous opioid peptides that function as neurotransmitters. They are produced by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus in vertebrates during exercise, excitement, pain, consumption of spicy food, love and orgasm, and they resemble the opiates in their abilities to produce analgesia and a feeling of well-being.
 


Every day I exercise and every other day my long program goes 90-105 minutes on average. When I finish my workout I feel so good … a high. Life is good, everything appears more positive, and I sense I am more in control.

No, it is not a “runner’s high” like I use to experience, but it is still good and quite enjoyable.

One of my favorite activities after I finish exercising is to take my dog for a walk through the woods and around the lake. I am always amazed how different the world looks after exercising. It is more sensual and enjoyable probably because I am breathing better, seeing and smelling more, and just more relaxed … free of stress.

If I am going to be addicted to something, I definitely want it to be endorphins.

I read this the other day and liked it: 

You are only one workout away

from a good mood.