October 2022
Isolation is Literally Killing Us
Recent research suggests that social isolation is bad for our health. People with less social connections have disrupted sleep patterns, compromised immune systems, and higher stress levels and inflammation. In this particular study, it was concluded that poor social relationships were associated with a 29% risk increase in coronary heart disease and a 32% risk increase in strokes. Isolated individuals have a more rapid cognitive decline, and are twice as likely to die in the next seven years compared to those with healthy social connections.
We can summarize that there is a direct correlation to increased risk of feeling depressed, anxiety, heart disease, stroke, and premature death with those in social isolation. Isolation is literally killing us.
So what do we do about it? One suggestion would be to focus on what we can control. Engage positively with a supportive community, and overcome challenges. Serotonin and Endorphins are two chemicals naturally produced in our body that are stimulated by those two activities. We can take advantage of our bodies' neurochemistry to overcome isolation and associated risks.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, which means that it carries information along and between neurons. It functions as a mood stabilizer by helping to alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. Serotonin is also known as the ‘confidence molecule’, as it has been found that high levels of serotonin correlate with lower rejection sensitivity, enabling an individual to place themselves in situations that will increase self esteem and feelings of worthiness. When we engage positively with a supportive community, we get a significant release of serotonin, stabilizing our mood and worth by providing to something greater than ourselves.
The brain secretes Endorphins as a response to pain or stress, but also during exercise, eating, or sex. The word ‘endorphin’ comes from the combination of two words; ‘endogenous’, meaning ‘within the body, and ‘morphine’, an opiate pain reliever. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain relievers. They also play a role in the alleviation of depression, in that endorphins are released during exercise, and exercise has been shown time and time again to help those suffering from depression. When we overcome physical challenges, we release endorphins, and literally give our bodies natural pain relief and a higher pain tolerance level going forward.
We all get stuck, stressed, and feel alone. This period of suffering often turns into a negative habit loop. We feel stressed, as a coping mechanism to the stress we disengage with others by increasing our screen time and isolating indoors. This habit deepens our hole into despair and depression. Climbing out of this hole starts with being around positive people, and moving your body.
Don’t let this opportunity to connect with people slip away. Get involved, get in community, overcome physical challenges, and see your life transform.
Disclaimer
This website does not provide medical advice. The information provided is purely for educational purposes. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Please seek your medical provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.
Preview of Programming Focuses this Month
Strength Cycle:
*9 Week Front Squat, Deadlift, & Jerk Cycle. Periodized Wave Cycle (Increasing Load, Decreasing Volume) (3x per week)
*Gymnastic Skill Development Practice (2x per week)Notable Benchmark Workouts:
“Run, Ski, Ride”, “300”, “Holleyman”, Halloween Wod, and Birthday Bash
Community Highlights/ Announcements
FREE Seminar: Benefits of Sleep & Magnesium for Stress Reduction, October 22nd 10:30 am in Studio 1 with Dr. Roberto Fars and Dr. Lonnie Teague
307 Athlete Fall Session #2 (Starts October 24th): “Prepare your kids to excel at life”
Upcoming Events
Birthday Bash October 15th. After party will be at Oil City Beer Company @1:00 PM. Head over to crossfit307.com/bash22 for more details.
Koda Iron Games October 7th-8th, Lafayette, CO
Turkey Challenge November 19th-20th, Superior, CO
Turkey Trot 5k November 24th, Casper, WY
307 Athlete - Fall Courses
Session 2: Oct 24 - Nov 16 (4 weeks)
Varsity | Ages 12-14
with Coaches Lisa & Barb
Mon/Wed | 3:30pm
Jr Varsity | Ages 8-11
with Coach Sam
Mon/Wed | 4:30pm
Cubs | Ages 4-7
with Coach Kyree
Mon/Wed | 5:45pm
Sign up at 307athlete.com