We All Have A Secret Hormone In Our Body To Fend Against Depression. But There’s Only One Way To Activate It.

Get this - they’re called “hope molecules.”

by The Candidly Team

Ok, you ready for this?

There are these very specific molecules that exist inside our muscles that when secreted … BOOM!!!!

They whizz all the way across the blood-brain barrier where they release glorious anti-depressant and mood-boosting effects.

Mind-blowing, no?

They’re called myokines or as scientists like to call them “hope molecules.” And they’re a little like our own internal pharmacy of self-dispensing happy pills.

So how do you get these magic, little hope molecules to dispense?

That’s right. By contracting our muscles.

Maybe you can see where this is going.

Contracting your muscles through any form of exercise can release a literal substance that’s been scientifically shown to improve your mental health.

Here’s a quick video from sports psychologist and author Kelly McGonigal that helps explain how:

@biopulse_ 💪✨ The Most Fascinating Discovery: Hope Molecules in Your Muscles! Did you know that your muscles are not just for movement? In the last decade, scientists have discovered that muscles function as an endocrine organ, secreting hormones that affect every system in your body. One groundbreaking study revealed that when you contract your muscles, they release proteins into your bloodstream that help you become more resilient to stress and protect against depression. These proteins are known as “hope molecules.” The concept is simple yet profound: your muscles produce antidepressant molecules, and the only way to get them into your bloodstream is by contracting your muscles. Whether you’re walking, running, hiking, dancing, or weightlifting, any activity that engages your muscles will release these hope molecules. Once they travel to your brain, they act as natural antidepressants, helping to lift your mood and even aiding in recovery from trauma. It’s like having a built-in pharmacy in your muscles! So, next time you need a mood boost, remember that moving your body isn’t just good for physical health—it’s essential for mental well-being too. 🌟 Ready to feel the benefits? Get moving and share your experiences with us! 🗣️ Speakers: Dr Kelly McGonigal 🎵 Music: AShamaluevMusic - Epic Emotional 🎬 Video: Shawn Stevenson (YouTube) Contact us for credit or removal requests (no copyright intended) ©️ All rights and credits reserved to the respective owner(s). #HopeMolecules #ExerciseBenefits #MentalHealth #EndocrineSystem #NaturalAntidepressants #StayActive ♬ original sound - BioPulse

While we all know (though can sometimes ignore) the age-old truth that exercise makes you feel good after you do it, the powers of myokines (which were up til recently a total mystery to us) in many ways feels much more empowering.

Why is that?

Well, for one thing our pursuit of happiness can sometimes feel very external. Where we live. Who we date. What supplements we take. We tend to think big and bold and long-term, which is all great, but it’s also great to understand the minutae of stuff that’s within our immediate control. Things like using our muscles can send chemical messengers into our bloodstream that fight depression.

Image from Instagram/ @thevvvibe

And “hope molecules” don’t just do incredible things for our mood and mental health. Myokines have been linked to:

• improving mood and quality of life in older adults

• protecting the brain from the negative effects of ageing

• helping boost metabolism

• helping reduce inflammation

• increasing muscle mass and strength

Image from Instagram/ @louisanicola_

As women over 35, exercise and strength-training become even more enormous in terms of not just how healthy we are on paper but the degree to which we’re able to enjoy our lives.

With all the incredible hauls and efforts we put into our health, it’s nice to be reminded of exactly how certain actions like working out can pay off.

There is hope. In our muscles. As we speak.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used in place of professional advice, medical treatment, or professional care in any way. This article is not intended to be and should not be a substitute for professional care, advice or treatment. Please consult with your physician or healthcare provider before changing any health regimen. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease of any kind. Read our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.