Endorphins are chemical messengers in your brain, responsible for your feelings and moods. They are your own personal narcotic, responding to stimuli such as stress, fear and pain. Just as morphine, a synthetic narcotic, suppresses pain, endorphins can do the same. These messengers can also spark euphoria similar to that of the opiate heroin. As a human being, you need not rely on synthetic or illegal opiates to elevate your mood, you only need to learn the ways to trigger endorphins naturally.
Understanding Endorphins
Although most associate endorphins with pleasure, the primary triggers are stress and pain. The region in your brain known as the hypothalamus is responsible for several functions such as sexual function, breathing, hunger and emotions. The hypothalamus is part of the limbic system, a highly emotional area of the brain that contains opioid receptors. If your endorphins reach this area, feelings of pleasure and happiness result. However, the release of too many endorphins can result in rage, while too few may result in certain mental illnesses such as obsessive-compulsive disorder. Your response to stimuli may vary from that of another depending on the amount of endorphins your brain releases.
Pain
Whether you hit your head, or are in the process of giving birth, endorphins come to your rescue. Pain is a common reason for the release of these neurotransmitters, their purpose being to change your perception of the pain you feel. Although women in the middle of labor may not feel as if their endorphins are working, the pain may actually be worse were it not for these chemical messengers. The best part is you can receive all the benefits your body's natural morphine has to offer without the risk of addiction.
Sex
Sex is another natural source of endorphins. From beginning to end, sexual activity plays an important role in the release of these neurotransmitters. Although ongoing physical contact and intercourse itself is a part of the process, the major link lies with the orgasm. Not only do you release endorphins, but the hormone oxytocin. Together, they cause a feeling of euphoria.
Exercise
Many tout the ability of exercise to release endorphins, crediting activities such as walking, running, biking or swimming for the smile on their faces. MayoClinic.com supports this claim, referring to it as runner's high. This feeling of euphoria is the result of prolonged periods of exercise.
Food
Certain foods bring out endorphins. According to DailyMail.co.uk, your body produces endorphins by breaking down the food you eat. To get the most out of the food you eat, make sure it includes vitamins B and C, along with iron and zinc. Some examples of euphoric foods include strawberries, ice cream, grapes, pasta, bananas and chocolate. If you prefer spice to sugar, chili peppers might work for you. Your body releases endorphins to quench the heat these peppers cause.
