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Get on a natural high!

One of the most common myths about drugs is that they give a rush nothing else in the world can offer.

But the clean truth is physical activities can enable you to get high without falling into the low of drug-taking.

For instance, you could pound the track, cut through the water at high speed or bend a soccer ball right into the goal.

Exercises like jogging, wakeboarding and soccer make you feel good.

Medical research has shown that working out can release a chemical in your body called endorphins. They help you experience a “natural high”.

With this feel-good vibe, you develop a general sense of well-being and appreciation for the people in your life too.

Take it from swimming star Mark Chay, 24, who describes the thrill of his sporting achievements as “10 times better than getting an A for a class I’d worked hard for”.

Chay, who is now studying in the United States, has represented Singapore in various international competitions, including the past two Olympics in 2004 and 2000.

When drug addicts turn to illegal substances in order to seek out similar sensations, they also harm themselves in the process.

Not only do they risk permanent damage to their brains and other important organs, they are also falling foul of the law, and opening their loved ones to pain, tears and grief.

One example would be ketamine, currently the most commonly abused drug here.

When taken, the synthetic drug can cause delirium, memory loss and vomiting, according to a Straits Times report last month (Sept 06).

Former England soccer icon Paul Gascoigne, 39, who spent years battling drinks and drugs problems, told British media last year: “If you can’t stop being on them (drugs) you will end up in a coffin. That’s a fact.”

If sports are not your scene, there are also other physical activities you can try, like dancing, singing or playing a musical instrument. Getting what you aim for is certainly a high, without the side effects.

Choose the right way to get high. To use a sporting metaphor, the ball is in your court.

Which physical activity is most shiok and gives you the best natural high? Join the discussion »