Molecules of Hope

How to activate them and be happier

One of the greatest recent scientific discovery in human biology is that our muscles can secrete proteins - called myokines (from myo meaning muscle, and kine meaning “set into motion by.”). In other words muscles act as an endocrine organ. A 2018 research paper identified 35 proteins released by our quadriceps during 60 minutes of cycling alone!

Some of these myokines help our muscles grow stronger, others regulate blood sugar. Some decrease inflammation in the brain, which can prevent neurological disorders and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. They can affect your mood, your immune system, and basically every organ in your body (even your brain). Some scientists now argue that many of the long-term health benefits of exercise are due to these proteins released during muscle contraction.

One of the first scientific papers to write about these exercise-induced myokines called them “hope molecules.” Isn’t that wonderful?

“Every time we move our muscles, we are giving ourselves an intravenous dose of hope.” Kelly McGonigal, PhD

I kept the best piece of news for the end! The good news is that all muscles can produce molecules of hope. You just need to contract them. Whether you lift weights, run a marathon, do yoga, your muscles release myokines. To increase the production of myokines, just increase the intensity of your workout. But whether you’re 12, 20 or 90 it’s never too late to start moving and be happier!

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Let’s get happier together!

See you on the mat.