I'm fascinated by research into HOPE MOLECULES .....
Here are a few articles that talk about it - explains why exercise can make you feel not only better physically but more optimistic and hopeful.
Combine with what we are discovering about the VAGUS NERVE and I think we're on to some pretty effective self-care ......
One of the most interesting health research projects of the past decade or so has looked at how exactly exercise makes us feel good. Research shows that there appears to be a clear scientific reason, that we can see at a cellular level. When muscles contract, they secrete chemicals into the bloodstream. Among these chemicals are myokines, which have been referred to as “hope molecules”. These small proteins travel to the brain, cross the blood-brain barrier, and act as an antidepressant. They do this by improving our mood, our ability to learn, our capacity for locomotor activity, and protect the brain from the negative effects of ageing. This has been referred to as “muscle-brain cross-talk”.
The Science of Hope Molecules
During exercise, your muscles contract, secreting chemicals into the bloodstream. One of these chemicals is myokines, which are small proteins that travel to the brain and act as antidepressants. Myokines, also referred to as hope molecules, can enhance your overall health by improving your mood or ability to learn and protecting the brain from the effects of aging.
One of the best-known hope molecules is irisin, which is produced by muscle cells in response to exercise. Irisin has been shown to promote the conversion of white fat to brown fat, which burns calories to produce heat. This effect can help to reduce body fat and improve metabolic health, which are important for preventing and managing a range of diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
This scientist has written a book on this subject, I've just ordered it and will review it once read!
