On August 21st, Sport4Life hosted their annual event at the West Club in the BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston, Texas. Former Houston City Council Member Jolanda Jones joined guests to help raise money to target HIV/AIDS awareness through the power of sports and sports celebrities.
Several prominent athletes helped host a private auction and participated in sports-themed events as part of the evening’s activities. The list included former Olympians Michelle Burrell, Leroy Burrell and Floyd Heard. Also present were USA and Swedish Track Team members Ifoma and Henrick Olausson and boxing promoter George Foreman IV.
Why Sports?
Sport4Life recognizes how sports have the power to transform our world. Team sports teach us to cooperate and respect one another. And sports of all varieties teach us about confidence, achievement and sportsmanship. It’s also a great way to bring us together and build on the foundations of our community. But most importantly, sports keep us active, healthy and strong. And for sufferers of TMD, sports help us relax and unwind.
How it Works: The Stress-Relieving Benefits of Exercise
Physical activity of any type helps stimulate and release the body’s production of neurotransmitters, or brain chemicals. One of the many chemicals in your brain is endorphins. When released during exercise, these agents result in feelings of euphoria. How does it work? According to a 2008 study published in the journal Cerebral Cortex, high levels of endorphins easily bind with receptors at the front of the brain. This in turn results in positive mood changes, decreased pain and release of stress and tension.
Slower or Later in Life is Okay, Too
Participating in sports or any physical activity should be a daily part of one’s TMD regimen. But that exercise does not have to be strenuous or physically draining. Numerous studies have documented the positive results of even mild to moderate exercise. It’s also never too late to start exercising. In 2009, the journal Neurobiology of Aging reported on the effects of lifelong exercise versus exercise initiated late in life. The results were positively conclusive. Even modest activity in older patients with no history of past exercise had a beneficial effect on chemical and endorphin stimulation within the body.
What this means for TMD Patients
If you have been inactive for a long time, first consult with Dr. Auvenshine and your primary care provider before starting any exercise regimen. Then make a plan to make daily exercise a routine part of your life.
Original Source: https://www.medcentertmj.com/healthy-living/staying-fit-tmj/