Endorphins: Releasing Bliss Chemicals Through Exercises

Human biology is a funny thing. Within us is everything we need to survive and thrive. Not only that, our bodies are a factory for feel-good hormones called endorphins. Endorphins are biochemical couriers synonymous with the euphoria and positive feelings often experienced during and after exercise and other activities. Crazy, right?

But what exactly are endorphins, how do they function, and what role do they play when it comes to regular exercise?

Don’t worry, this isn’t going to be a science lecture, but we do need to cover the basics.

Endorphins are small, protein-like molecules known as neuropeptides, produced by the central nervous system and the pituitary gland. Essentially, they act as both natural painkillers and mood elevators, by binding to opioid receptors in the brain to reduce pain and boost pleasure, creating a sense of wellbeing.

The body releases endorphins in response to stress and discomfort – part of our evolutionary fight- or-flight response. So, when faced with a challenging situation, our brain floods our body with endorphins to help mask that discomfort and allow us for continued effort and survival.

Oddly enough, this process isn’t just limited to physical exertion but can also be triggered by emotional stress, spicy foods, and even ultraviolet light exposure. But, most notably, during exercise, our body's increased heart rate and exertion triggers a significant release of endorphins. This release can lead to what is commonly referred to as runner's high: a state of euphoria accompanied by a positive and energizing outlook on life. Of course, this isn’t limited to running, it can be set off by high and moderate exercises, like jogging, swimming, or cycling.

While its origins are rooted in survival, the benefits of endorphins extend far beyond mere pain relief. They play a crucial role in regulating our mood, reducing anxiety and depression, and enhancing our immune response. By promoting a feeling of wellbeing, endorphins can help us cope with stress and reduce our perception of pain. On top of that, the euphoric feeling associated with endorphin release can act as a powerful motivator, encouraging us to maintain regular exercise routines.