After a run one usually feels very good and refreshed. From where? neurobiologist Ben Martinogue, What happens in our brain when we run? scientifically explained.
After running, not only the physical condition of the runner, but also the mood changes. Athletes discovered this link hundreds of years ago and still use running as an effective tool to improve their quality of life. Can't concentrate on your task? Is your morale too low? Was the last work week too busy? If you run a little, you will immediately feel how your mood has changed.
Neuroscientist Ben Martinogue says:
1. The phenomenon of “runner's pleasure” really exists
“It's natural to feel tired while running. After running, athletes often experience activation of the reward system in the brain, namely an increase in the secretion of endorphins and endocannabinoids. In a sense, the human body produces its own medicines. Endorphins act. opiates and endocannabinoids activate receptors activated by cannabis. This doesn't mean that running is physically addictive, but these changes may explain the enjoyment of the running process." Physiologically, the body releases these elements to reduce tension and sensitivity to muscle pain.
2. Brain gets stressed after running for a long time
“Studies show that athletes' brains can shrink by up to 6% after running long marathon distances. Fortunately, this is a reversible process and the brain recovers completely over the next months,” explains Ben. The brain is a small organ but consumes 20% of the body's energy. It is likely that some of a person's mental functions will be impaired during more serious physical activity.”
3. Stress can be directed in the right direction
“After a hard day's work, our bodies squirm with exhaustion. Located at the base of the brain, the hypothalamus sends a signal to the pituitary gland, which in turn sends a signal to the adrenal glands,” Ben continues. As a result, the adrenal glands secrete adrenaline and cortisol, which spread throughout the body. Pulse and breathing quicken, pupils dilate, arterial blood pressure rises. All this has a negative impact on presentation preparation and report writing. But if you clearly understand your situation, Do something more productive for a while, like running a little.” In this way, you can stop stress, stimulate dopamine release, regulate your emotions and feelings, and easily prepare a presentation or write a report.
4. It's human nature to run
“When you look at human evolution, it's clear that our bodies need running,” he says, “It's a very effective way for anyone to check their mental capacity. There is evidence and evidence that running improves the ability to perform purposefully. Running helps. This ultimately helps us solve problems. Also, running improves short-term memory, making you more successful at work or school.
5. Running improves perception, helps to concentrate
“Running helps one to grasp everything easily, to enter a state of meditation. You pay attention to your breathing, the steps you take, what is going on around you. He doesn't care what happened yesterday or what will happen tomorrow. You will go home with all your troubles forgotten. You will come back relaxed and relieved.”
6. After running, the brain releases chemicals that help relieve muscle pain.
Ben said, “These chemicals can create a sense of gratification that pushes you towards your goal. We tend to give more importance to positive memories than negative memories like desire. In some cases, these chemicals help fight muscle soreness afterwards.” running."
7. Running can improve memory
Ben says, “Some of the changes that occur in the body with running, including improved focus and memory, persist for some time after running. Then the body returns to normal, but I think these changes are cumulative. Best results Children and the elderly. There is evidence that regular physical activity for several months helps the hippocampus to grow and, accordingly, to develop some types of memory.”
8. Body lazy, brain lazy
“It is not okay to sit all day,” he says, “it has a negative impact not only on a person's body, but also on their mental state, their ability to communicate with the world around them. Physical activity doesn't need sitting down. While not excessive, moderate physical activity is very beneficial and does not require any financial costs”.
9. The hardest is the first step
The hardest part is the beginning. The brain does not want to change its habits. Making a new commitment and making time for it is a little harder for the brain. This causes additional energy consumption and a minor mismatch or conflict. But if you overcome your inner laziness and take a decisive step and start running regularly, you will not regret it.
