In addiction, the brain is impaired in its ability to feel happiness. Drugs and alcohol stimulate extremely high productions of dopamine, which creates the euphoric sensations of being intoxicated. The more drugs and alcohol are abused, the more the brain relies on those chemical substances to produce those feelings of happiness. When a tolerance develops, the brain cannot get the same amount of happiness, meaning the same amount of dopamine, from drugs and alcohol. Eventually the brain becomes depleted in its ability to produce its own dopamine, meaning, the brain cannot produce its own happiness without drugs and alcohol. Intensive cardio exercise like running produces high volumes of endorphins and dopamine which are chemical hormone signals of happiness. Some people refer to this as a “runner’s high”. Part of the neurobiological process of addiction also includes the way the brain creates a memory association with happiness. The reason the brain craves drugs and alcohol is because of the association it has made that drugs and alcohol provide the high intensity level of happiness that the brain desires. Creating new patterns of association for happiness helps reprogram the brain by building new neural pathways. In general, exercise has been proven to be an effective method for maintaining a program of recovery and healing both the mind and the body. Proven to reduce symptoms of depression, exercise also helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress. As a tool for emotional regulation and for health, exercise activities like running are necessary components for recovery. Running has also been found to reduce symptoms of depression because of the amount of endorphins and dopamine produced in the brain. In addition to happiness, running has other benefits for addiction recovery, including:
- Reduced cravings for unhealthy substances and behaviors
- Increased discipline for routine and self-care
- Enhanced sense of self-esteem and self-efficacy
- Time to think and reflect, with greater clarity
- Living example of working toward a goal and accomplish it with dedication
- Improves heart health, which can be damaged by drug and alcohol addiction
- Increases flow of breath, sending more oxygen to the brain and the body, inspiring healing
Oceanfront Recovery is a treatment facility located just feet away from the beautiful beaches of Orange County, California. Our residential treatment programs are offered in a full continuum of care from detox to transitional living to support you through each step of the journey toward independence. For information, call us today: (877) 279-1777
