06. DR HILARY MARUSAK: THE RUNNERS' HIGH

06. DR HILARY MARUSAK: THE RUNNERS' HIGH

Author: Exploring the power of play in contemporary culture January 8, 2025 Duration: 47:28

We have a change of pace for you today. We’re going somewhat technical (don’t worry, it’s all understandable!) as Emma invites onto the show, Dr Hilary Marusak to talk about the brain and how it can relate to play or more specifically in movement based activity. We’re peeling back the layers and brain science of the ‘runners high’ how it happens and how to get it (not just from running!)

Dr. Marusak is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences at Wayne State University (WSU) School of Medicine in Detroit Michigan where she directs the WSU THINK Lab, which focuses on characterising the impact of stress and trauma during childhood on brain development in children and adolescents.

In this episode, Emma and Hilary discuss (with timestamps):

00:00 - Introductions

03:03 - Losing childhood curiosity / keeping playfulness

05:35 - The Cannabinoid system

12:24 - What impact does exercise have on this system?

14:01 - The runner’s ‘high’

14:54 - Endorphins vs Cannabinoids

16:38 - Emma explains her definition of play

19:24 - Does play have an impact on the brain?

21:12 - Playful movement & Freedom play

26:03 - Matching movement to psychological benefits

29:43 - Natural high vs Drug induced high

35:04 - Exercise as a tool for helping with trauma exposure

37:06 - Is movement undervalued in everyday life?

38:38 - Free play vs Structured exercise

42:14 - Tips for natural movement based highs

To find out more about Hilary, check out the links below:

https://psychiatry.med.wayne.edu/profile/eq0200

X - @hmarusak



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit playfulden.substack.com

The Playful Den Podcast digs into the serious business of having fun. It’s a space where curiosity meets conversation, examining how a playful approach influences everything from scientific innovation and educational methods to personal growth and social bonds. Each episode unpacks a different facet of this core idea, moving beyond theory to find the practical applications in our daily lives. You’ll hear from researchers, artists, parents, and community organizers who are actively integrating play into their work and homes, sharing stories that reveal its profound impact on creativity, resilience, and connection. This isn’t about nostalgia for childhood games, but rather an investigation into a fundamental human drive and how we can harness it. The discussions are thoughtful yet accessible, blending evidence from various fields with relatable anecdotes. Whether the topic is designing better learning environments, fostering mental well-being through imaginative practices, or understanding how play shapes cultural trends, the aim is to offer tangible insights. The goal of this podcast is to provide a consistent, engaging exploration that encourages listeners to reconsider their own routines and perspectives, finding opportunities for lightness and invention where they might not expect them. Tune in for a regular dose of inspiration that makes the case for incorporating more spontaneity and joy into the fabric of contemporary life.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 27

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