“The same family of chemicals that produces a buzz in marijuana smokers may be responsible for ‘runner's high,’ the euphoric feeling that some people get when they exercise,” according to U.S. researchers and CNN.
A recent study suggests that “runner’s high” is not caused by endorphins as traditionally believed, but by cannabindoids. Cannabindoids “produce sensations that are similar to...the psychoactive property in marijuana.”
Researchers propose that the body releases cannabindoids to deal with the pain caused by long, intense periods of exercise. Unlike the cannabindoids in marijuana, exercise-released cannabindoids don’t harm the body.
Though I’ve never tried marijuana, I can accept the idea that “runner’s high” is comparable to marijuana high. Being a long-distance runner, I experience “runner’s high” often. If I run three miles, I smile more. If I run five miles, I giggle like a ditz at the smallest things and chatter breathlessly to anyone who’ll listen. If I run seven miles, I’m ecstatic and energized to the point of being truly hyper; I might never shut up, at this point.
Yesterday, I ran nine miles. I was sickeningly cheerful for hours afterwards. I patched up a quarrel, talked on the phone with friends, went shopping, ate incessantly and gabbled gibberish to my dog (because he could listen to me for hours).
Ultimately, the feeling of “runner’s high” is hard to describe to those who’ve never felt it. The most I can say is, it’s pure joy, supreme self-confidence, total relaxation and complete exhilaration. It’s sublime, and yes, I’d even venture to say that it’s sort of holy. I feel this inner reservoir of tranquility and energy. I let go of my inhibitions and become bold, daring, unafraid. After running, I often tackle tasks I've been dreading for ages: I clean my room, (attempt) to cook, start studying for finals, make decisions. In high school, during track and cross country seasons, my grades percentages were always higher.
This summer, I URGE YOU to try jogging, biking, hiking, walking, canoeing, mountain climbing or any other sport in the great outdoors! The experience, and the feeling you’ll get afterwards, is inspiring. It transcends.
Besides, wouldn’t you rather exercise -- than obtain illegal marijuana from some dark trashy street corner? Wouldn’t you rather improve your health while enjoying natural, exercise-induced euphoria -- than detract from it with artificial, drug-induced sensations? I know I would.
Respond to this posting
Back to top