A study revealed that feelings of fatigue were activated by the mind, not the muscles.
Researchers stated these findings could produce both positive consequences such as treatments for conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome and negative repercussions such as the manufacturing of forbidden performance-enhancing drugs.
It has been believed for some time that fatigue was brought upon by over-working the muscles, however increasing evidence is showing that the brain is responsible for the tired feelings people experience after working out. The theory here is that the brain intervenes as a way to protect muscles from being damaged.
It was discovered that a molecule called interleukin-6 worked by acting as a messenger to the brain telling it when to start winding down. One method of treating chronic fatigue syndrome that has shown some success was preventing IL-6 receptors in the brain with the use of antibodies.
Researchers expressed concerns over the likelihood that unethical athletes might try the same method for purposes of enhancing their athletic performance.
New Scientist July 29, 2004
This is clearly an example of just how much impact the brain has on our overall health. Perhaps this helps to explain why meditation is so beneficial.
Another excellent meditation tool is the Insight CD, which I listen to personally and now recommend to all of my patients. The Insight CD is a complete tool dedicated to helping you reduce stress, explore expanded states of consciousness, and achieve deeper levels of self-awareness.