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and Health
Mood and energy levels can have a strong impact on our general health and well-being. We all experience periods of fluctuating energy and emotion, but science is now showing us how all of these elements are actually connected and how, when we care for our energy levels and emotions, our health naturally benefits.
What is the Relationship Between Mood and Energy?
Mood and energy are actually quite intertwined; one affects the other in a very real way. When our energy levels are low, it can be more difficult to sustain a good mood, and when our emotions are jostled, it can cause us to feel exhausted and drained. The same goes for when we feel our most energized, like after a workout or a good night’s sleep—our moods tend to be lifted right alongside our energy.
The Impact of Body Chemistry
Our body chemistry has an immediate effect on both our energy and emotions. Whenever we experience an emotion, our bodies contain a blend of different chemicals that helps to drive that feeling.
The hormones adrenaline and cortisol, which are often nicknamed the “fight or flight” hormones, are released when we are feeling fear, anger, or any other kind of intense emotion. These hormones can help us to enjoy activities such as extreme sports, but can also lead to an over-eagerness or impulsiveness that can cause us to act before thinking.
Endorphins, which are released during activities such as exercise and eating certain kinds of food, are the hormones with the most positive impact on our moods. Endorphins help us to relax, reduce stress, and make us feel calmer.
The Link Between Intelligence and Mood
The connection between intellectual and emotional health also plays a role in our mood and energy management. Intelligence—which is now being acutely studied as more than just IQ—impacts our emotions in several meaningful ways.
Studies have shown that high levels of General Mental Ability (GMA) can lead to lower levels of stress and a better sense of control over our lives. These qualities can help us to approach difficult tasks and challenging emotions with a greater sense of presence and perspective.
GMA can also make us more aware of our emotions and how to regulate them. With this increased awareness, our emotions become less overwhelming, and we can better manage stress levels and respond calmly to difficult situations.
The Benefits of Healthy Mood and Energy Levels
When we can maintain a healthy mood and energy balance, our long-term wellbeing will naturally improve. Not only will we have more physical energy to accomplish tasks, but we’ll also be better equipped to think clearly and respond to difficult or emotionally triggering situations with clarity and presence.
Healthier moods can also lead to better sleep, increased self-confidence, enhanced performance, greater motivation and alertness, improved relationships, and much more.
Conclusion
Understanding the science behind mood and energy levels can help us to become much more aware of our emotions and the impact that they can have on our bodies. When we learn how to better manage our energy levels and emotions, we’ll be less prone to destructive behavior and bouts of depression.
By applying the science of mood and energy, we’ll be able to better sustain our physical and mental health, boost our confidence, stay alert, and lead more fulfilled and balanced lives.
