Everybody knows that exercise is good for you, but did you know that it can actually help you feel good, too?
So how does exercise get you high? Well, when you exercise your body produces more endorphins: these are the body's natural painkillers and 'feel-good' chemicals. When enough endorphins are produced, the nerves that control pain and pleasure impulses in your brain are activated. The result is that no pain signals are sent to the brain and your body starts to relax, leaving you in a state of euphoria. Drugs such as heroin stimulate the production of endorphins too - but can make you feel anxious, depressed or irritable.
Regular exercise also alters the serotonin levels in your brain. Serotonin is another chemical that helps lift your mood, improves your sleep, maintains your appetite and generally just makes you feel good.
2. EAT BETTER
What you eat has a big influence on how you feel too. If your body isn't getting enough vitamin B (especially B12), vitamin C, or is low on minerals such as zinc, iron and potassium, you will end up feeling down and depressed as your endorphin levels get too low. Your endorphin levels can be improved by:
Drinking more mineral water and fruit juice rather than sugary drinks (even diet ones!)
Trying to snack on fruit like oranges and grapes rather than sugary sweets and chips
Getting more omega 3 oils - try eating oily fish like mackerel, sardines and tuna
Having a chocolate once in a while
Eating healthily has other side effects as a bonus - you may sleep better, have more energy, it can even affect how you look. Eating the right foods can make your hair glossier, nails stronger and skin clearer.
3. LISTEN TO MORE MUSIC
This is a no brainer, but listening to or playing music reduces stress and anxiety and can help produce that natural high. So the next time your parents tell you to turn the music down
"Computer games don't affect kids; I mean if Pac-Man affected us as kids, we'd all be running around in darkened rooms, munching magic pills and listening to repetitive electronic music." -- Kristian Wilson, Nintendo, Inc, 1989"
I'd like to add: spend time with family and friends, get a hobby. I was amazed that I enjoy these things sooooo much more sober, before they were a hassle! It does wonder for the spirituality!
dye the hair green like cabbage..