TIANA HILL | FEBRUARY 2023
This past weekend, I scheduled myself to do a 60-minute workout. When Saturday morning rolled around, I wanted to do anything but the workout. I told myself 60 minutes is too long; maybe do 30 minutes. I told myself to go for a walk instead because it was such a beautiful morning, and I could take the dog. Win/Win. While all of those are great options, and I choose those things too, I was looking for an out this time. Truthfully, I didn’t feel like doing anything. And sometimes that’s okay too. One thing I know for sure, I have never regretted working out. In fact, I always feel better afterward, and this time was no exception.
And there is deep science connected to this feeling, the feeling of feeling better after a workout. According to Phillips & Salehi, when we exercise, we release hormones and proteins into the bloodstream that affect every system of the body, including the brain (2016). Scientists call this hormone the “Hope Molecule”. The “Hope Molecule” leads to improved brain health and resiliency related to stress and depression. We know that physical activity has a positive impact not only on our physical health but our mental health as well. Isn’t it exciting to know that each time you are out walking, biking, swimming, and hiking, you are releasing “Hope” hormones into your brain!
If you are so inclined and want to test the science behind the “Hope Molecule” you can practice yoga with me in the December and January newsletters.
Be sure to keep your eye out for a new yoga video in the March edition of the Wellness Corner.
Be well,
Tiana
* Phillips, C., & Salehi, A. (2016). A Special Regenerative Rehabilitation and Genomics Letter: Is There a “Hope” Molecule? Physical Therapy, 96(4), 581–583.
