Six Ways to Get a Natural High

We all want to feel good and occasionally have a feel of bliss and euphoria. Many people turn to drugs or alcohol to get this state of mind. Would it surprise you to learn there are ways you can get a natural high? Natural highs come from the release of endorphins, body chemicals that are known as "feel good" chemicals since they give you a sense of well being and can even induce a blissful state. There endorphins can be released under a variety of circumstances. Here are some healthy ways to get a natural high:

1. Get out your running shoes

One of the most reproducible and reliable ways to get a natural high is to run. You've probably heard ot fhe term "runner's high". This is a very real entity often experienced by people who run longer distances. Again, this natural high is thought to be due to the brain altering properties of endorphins which are released during intense exercise. As a generalization to achieve a natural high from running, you'll need to run at a good pace for at least 20-30 minutes before you' can expect to experience the good feelings. Unfortunately, the process of exercising at this high of an intensity can be uncomfortable for the first 20 minutes. Despite this, the natural runner's high is what motivates runner to put on their running shoes every morning.

2. Listen to classical or new age music

Studies have shown that listening to classical or new age music without words not only can stimulate release of endorphins but can even alter brain wave activity resulting in feelings of peace, relaxation, and in some cases, a sense of euphoria. Of course you'll need to choose your music wisely if you want to achieve a natural high. Hard rock and music with complicated words and imagery may act as a stimulant and take your further from your state of bliss.

3. Meditate

Deep, focused meditation has been shown to a stimulant for endorphin release which can induce a natural high. If you haven't meditated before, you may want to take a class or use an instructional DVD to learn the techniques of meditation. Meditation also has a variety of other beneficial effects on both the mind and body including lowering heart rate and blood pressure as well as relieving anxiety and tension.

4. Learn to laugh

Laughter can be a very potent stimulator of endorphin release. If you've ever laughed long and hard, you know what a good feeling it can create. There are even laugh therapy coaches and counselors out there now to help you harness the powerful health benefits and good feelings that come from laughter. If you don't want to use a laughter coach, try watching an extremely funny DVD where the humor comes at your quickly. The longer and harder you laugh, the more endorphins you'll release and the better you'll feel.

5. Get a massage

A relaxing massage can be a great way to induce a blissful state. Again, massage can induce release of those magnificent feel good chemicals we know as endorphins. Try combining massage with classical music to promote the ultimate natural high.

6. Give something away to someone who needs it

The act of giving something away to someone in need and seeing their expression of gratitidue is a natural high all to itself. Why not give a family in need money for their next meal or give an animal a new life who's about to be euthanized at a local shelter? This may be the best way of all to experience that feeling of bliss. The natural high from this one can last for days.

The next time you reach for caffeine or alcohol to give you a rush, why not try these ways to get a natural high instead?