I am influenced by the writings of Austrian born Alfred Adler. Alfred Adler, one of the founders of the psychoanalytic movement, separated from Sigmund Freud in 1911 over the issue of sexuality and developed a psychological theory of his own. For example, he incorporated the concepts inferiority complex, striving for superiority and social interest as some of his components in his social psychological theory. In my book, I utilize his ideas and present a model in understanding the motivation of the ultra-athlete.
Recently, Alfred Adler’s ashes have been discovered in Scotland after being lost for more than 70 years. He died in Aberdeen, Scotland in 1937 while on a lecture tour. His ashes will now be delivered to Vienna to be re-interned in a place of honor in the cities central cemetery.
On another note, more tidbits about former Gov. Austrian born Arnold Schwarzenegger and his wife Maria Shriver are progressing with their separation. Arnold admitted having an affair and a child with one of their employees. In a previous blog, I talked about the possibility there was a loss of passion in Arnold’s and Maria's relationship. Apparently, it is a little more complicated. I am positive more of their story is forthcoming. Arnold may have a sexual addiction. The word addiction is often associated with behavior problems like alcohol, drugs, smoking, caffeine, gambling etc.
When I was interviewed by Susan Cohn Rockefeller in the Western States 100 documentary titled “Running Madness” in 2002, I referred to my running as an addiction. In other words, all addictions are not bad. As long as an “addiction” does not interfere, in a negative way, with one’s relationships, family, work, or health, then an activity like running is and can be a positive. So how can we get more people addicted to physical exercise or running to improve health and well being? Research of the brain tells us that our brain lights up (pleasure) while were engaged in thinking about or engaging in an addictive behavior. When neurotransmitters dopamine and glutamate, the prefrontal cortex, and the mid brain interact and are activated, we experience” pleasure” or simply put the addiction “lights up “the brain.
The task, for those of you that aren’t addicted to exercise, is to find a way to change behavior in order to change your brain chemistry so you can experience pleasure. The more you experience pleasure from the activity, the more you’re likely to engage or repeat that behavior. In this case I’m talking about getting started or keep motivated to improve your health. Today, Tony and I ran a short 6 mile or so loop just prior to the rain. We have been running on Tuesdays and Thursdays on a regular basis. Tony mentioned that he looks forward to our runs and I agree. I look forward to running with him and I know brain chemistry is involved. Prescription 1.from my book: get inspired. It’s okay to begin a new activity by taking baby steps. Physical activity can help in improving physical fitness, losing weight, reducing anxiety and minimizing depression.
Too bad the Amgen bike racers have to ride in this rainy wet weather. Today, they traveled through the endurance capital of the world which is Auburn, California. You realize they are addicted too. Ride safely you guys.
0 comments:
Post a Comment