The Science Of Laziness

It can feel good lounging around and doing nothing... sometimes too good! Whether it is to avoid work or escape a physical activity, we`ve all had those days. But why are some people way lazier than others? Is there a `couch-potato gene` that causes lazy behaviour? Evolution has molded our brains and body to respond positively to natural rewards such as food and even exercise. Wait-exercise? Yes, the pleasure we experience come largely from the dopamine system in our brain, which conveys these messages throughout the body, ultimately helping the ensure the survival of our species. For many, the pleasure derived from exercise can become as food. But while we`re all up for more food, many struggle with the desire for physical activity, even though it`s an essential part of human biology. Scientist studying mice have found an interesting genetic connection. After separating mice into two groups - those that choose to run on their wheel more often, and those that decided not to run as much - the difference was clear in their offspring. After 10 generations, the running mice will run on their wheels 75% more often than the other group, and by 16 generations they were running 7 miles a day as opposed to the average 4 miles. It seemed their motivation for physical activity was genetic. We all inherit genes from our parents that play a key role in the development of our brains, and these genes can make people literally crave activity. In fact, the brains of the running mice had larger dopamine systems and regions that deal with motivation and reward. They needed activity, otherwise their brain would react similar to drug addicted rodent when deprived from cocaine or nicotine. They were genetically addicted to running. We also inherit genes responsible for our other traits - from impulsivity, procrastination to our work ethic and straight up laziness. It turns out our physical laziness ma be linked to a `couch-potato gene`, or rather a mutation in our normal gene which regulates activity levels. This gene is responsible for a type of a dopamine receptor - without it, you`re more likely to prefer sitting around, and simply doing less than those who have the properly functioning gene. So the truth is, your desire for activity may not be entirely up to you, but many environmental factors are also in play , which means you`re not doomed to a life of laziness. Although, making a change will be harder for some, knowledge is power. So if you think you`re genetically lazy, get off the couch and fight your DNA. Your brain will reward you at the end.