Come On, Get Happy

Happy New Year! I hope that 2016 ended on a high note for you and that 2017 brings much prosperity and health – because without your health, not much else matters. Which brings us to January, the month when we here at CV Weekly showcase healthy living.

The New Year ushers in a unique opportunity grasped by many to resolve to “do better.” NBC News reports that among common goals are getting organized, living life to the fullest, learning new hobbies, spending less/saving more, traveling and reading more. Not surprising, the number one goal is getting healthier.

However, the idea in itself is rather abstract. How does one “get healthier?” No doubt diet plays a part. But aside from reducing one’s intake of sugar and fat, how else should one eat to bring about good health? Not even the so-called experts agree; discussions are ongoing as to the types of food to eat and in what combinations for the utmost health benefit. For example, some say that drinking red wine is a good idea for a healthy heart and that no adverse effects were found. (Note that the study reflected the results of those who drink one glass per night with a meal.) As a red wine drinker myself, I tend to like the results of this particular study.

Exercise, too, is an all-important component to achieving optimum health. But should one lift weights or run the track? Push ups or squats? As a novice when it comes to exercise, I think it wise to seek the advice of a professional, including your doctor, when undertaking an exercise regime. Hurting yourself will do more to discourage you from exercising rather than encourage it; however, don’t be surprised if you’re sore after working some parts that have been rather dormant the last few years. Regardless of what is chosen as a form of exercise, the key is to move. Dance, walk, run, hike – just move that body.

A nice side effect: When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins interact with the receptors in the brain that reduce your perception of pain. Endorphins also trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine.

Did you know that the brain doesn’t stop growing and developing until approximately the age of 26? This means that during the teen years, a tumultuous time for many, the brain’s development can be permanently altered by excessive alcohol consumption. We already know that alcohol is a depressant; long term over indulgence can actually hinder the hippocampus. The hippocampus is the small organ located within the brain that forms an important part of the limbic system, the region that regulates emotions. Does this mean then that adults who, as teens, abused alcohol shorted out their “happiness circuit?” That might explain why some people seem unable to be happy, and appear sad so much of the time. This is another good reason to resolve to take better care of yourself; after all, many believe that laughter is the best medicine. What a shame that some can’t enjoy a daily dose.

I hope that you’ll enjoy reading and learning about becoming healthier in the next few issues. After all, we want our CV Weekly readers around for a lot more years.

  robin goldsworthy