When starting a new health plan, more often than not, people share the common goal of better fitness. It can be hard to develop a routine and stick to it; finding the motivation to workout sometimes means making deals with yourself or practicing self-discipline. However, there is one very good reason to workout, and you may be surprised that it has to do with cannabinoids.
Anandamide is the body’s naturally occurring cannabinoid–very similar to THC–and it can be accessed through movement. This neurotransmitter was discovered when scientists realized that there must exist a natural cannabinoid for us to have developed cell receptors that interact with THC. After its discovery, it became clear that anandamide is produced at greater volumes during exercise.
Like THC, it relieves pain and anxiety, and anandamide has the added benefit of increasing dopamine production.
If you want to get (and stay) in shape this year or develop healthy fitness habits, explore three great activities that harness your natural cannabinoid and get the anandamide flowing.
Running
Running is the perfect choice for getting in shape and enjoying the positive after-effects of your workout. As an activity, it requires little more than a place, a good pair of shoes, and determination. Start out with small, obtainable goals, such as running for twenty minutes every day, or one lap around the local park. Slowly work up to longer times and greater distances.
The more you put into this exercise, the more you will get out in terms of not only fitness but anandamide production (there’s a reason many runners say the activity is addictive). Enjoy every minute, because when you finally stop, there will be a blissful euphoria waiting to reward you.
Yoga
Yoga and anandamide go hand in hand. In fact, the word “anandamide” comes from the Sanskrit word “ananda,” meaning pleasure. Yoga and anandamide both leave you feeling peaceful, centered, and happy. It’s an excellent choice for your fitness goals due to its extensive health benefits.
Since anandamide is more easily produced through harder physical activities, it will pay to choose a practice that is fast-paced. Consider a higher level vinyasa yoga class, which will keep you steadily and efficiently moving through each pose.
At the end, your savasana will have you soaring more than ever as you feel your body relax and open, and your mind clear and awash with the natural high of anandamide.
Dancing
How do you combine intense physical fitness with fun? Dancing. Whether it’s free-form to your favorite music or in a class with a guide, dancing is a phenomenal way to get fit and enjoy every second. This is a full-body exercise that will burn calories, loosen muscles, and keep your heart in shape. It’s also an activity that can be adjusted to suit many different people; whether you prefer hip hop, salsa, or jazzercise, there is bound to be a style and a music that gets you excited and moving.
Due to the intense physical nature of dancing, it’s also a great way to get that anandamide flowing.
There are plenty of great options to stay in shape and enjoy our body’s natural cannabinoid. Whether it’s running, yoga, dancing, or another activity like swimming, pilates, or lifting, there are so many great ways to get moving. With anandamide on your side, the result will not only leave you healthier and fitter, but pleasantly happier and higher as well.
