Le endorphins are our body's natural pain relievers and help improve and stabilize mood; these chemicals are naturally produced by the body during pleasurable activities (physical activity, sexual activity, laughter), but also during painful experiences.
Let's find out why we need endorphins and how to increase their levels naturally.
Index
What are endorphins and what are they used for?
Endorphins, or endogenous opioids, are groups of protein chains called peptides and are released by the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland; they act on the receptors to relieve pain and promote feelings of pleasure.
Benefits
There are many benefits of endorphins:
- Reduction of pain and discomfort
- Reduction of stress and anxiety
- Increased pleasure
- Reduction of inflammatory states
- Increase self-esteem
- Mood improvement
- Stronger immune system.
Shortage
If your body doesn't produce enough endorphins, you may be at risk for developing certain health conditions and symptoms, such as:
- Stronger and more frequent pains
- Increased risk of depression and anxiety
- Sulking
- Addiction
- Difficulty sleeping
- Frequent migraines.
How to Increase Endorphin Levels Naturally?
Let's see some natural methods to increase endorphins:
- Physical exercise: moderate to intense aerobic exercise and strength training force can lead to an increase in endorphins, dopamine and serotonin. Even non-intense physical activities such as cycling, running or gardening help to increase its levels
- To laugh: laughter is one of the best medicines; laughing releases endorphins and other feel-good hormones and helps reduce stress and pain
- Listening to music: the music helps support well-being and good mood; music therapy is becoming more and more popular and effective even in hospital settings
- Acupuncture: this technique comes from Chinese medicine and has recently spread also in the West, proving to be an effective treatment against pain and various ailments. It involves inserting small needles into the skin to stimulate the central nervous system; this leads to the release of many chemicals, including endorphins
- Dark chocolate: dark chocolate is rich in polyphenols such as i flavonoids which stimulate the brain to release endorphins; it is also a source of caffeine and this contributes to a good mood. The ideal is a dark chocolate at least 75%.
- Sexual activity: sexual activity promotes the release of endorphins, dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin, a hormone and neurotransmitter associated with the sense of trust
- Dance: dancing can be a lot of fun and, above all, it's good for your health; is a form of cardiorespiratory exercise that increases heart rate and releases endorphins. Additionally, dancing in group settings can increase social connection and reduce stress levels
- Meditation: meditation is a practice that requires the training of one's awareness; this activity promotes health by activating the nervous system and reduces the body's stress response system.
And you, did you know the powers of endorphins? Let us know in the comments and remember to follow us on our Telegram channel
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