Endorphins are the hormonal neurotransmitters in your brain that are responsible for your feeling happy. Sudden bursts of endorphins can cause you to feel euphoric, and endorphins are also your body's natural form of pain relief. The best part about endorphins is that you can stimulate their production to feel happy more often. Exercising daily, having a glass of wine with supper, or engaging in meditation can all help you access those endorphins and enjoy a feeling of well-being.
Step 1
Exercise daily. A study published in the "Journal of Sports Medicine" found that exercise induced the release of endorphins into your blood's circulation. Exercising daily could have as much an effect on your happiness as it does on your waist line. Try a brisk walk for 30 minutes, or go to the gym three times a week to boost endorphin production.
Step 2
Drink a glass of wine each night. Besides the fact that wine offers antioxidants, ending your day with a small amount of alcohol can boost endorphins, notes the "The Journal of Neuroscience." Mice having low endorphin production were given alcohol and drugs, and a boost in endorphins was noted. While the drugs that the mice were given are illegal, a small glass of wine at the end of each day can help you feel better.
Step 3
Eat spicy foods. The chemical found in most spicy foods, called capsaicin, is effective in boosting endorphins. In fact, some popular topical pain relief gels use capsaicin as an ingredient, notes FemaleForums.com. Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over your pasta for a quick endorphin boost.
Step 4
Have sex frequently. Columbia University's advice columnist "Alice" notes that having frequent sex is an ideal way to release endorphins. When an individual achieves orgasm, there is a rush of hormones that causes her to enjoy an overall feeling of well-being, notes Alice. And not to worry, you can't prohibit endorphin production by having too much sex.
Step 5
Meditate daily. Meditation offers a myriad of benefits to those who practice it. Increased focus, a feeling of well-being and less stress are all side effects reported by those who meditate. It's likely because mediation in a quiet space for a small amount of time each day can help boost your endorphins so that you end your session feeling relaxed and happy. Try sitting quietly for 5 to 10 minutes to start.
