Let’s go straight into it. . .
Endorphins are one of the many amazing miracles the body can produce. You may not even be aware of it, but when you are exercising, your body is releasing this “drug” that makes you feel a heck-of-a lot better mentally and physically afterwards. So what is this “drug”? Let’s dissect it a bit:
The word “Endorphin” comes from the two words, “endogenous + morphine.” Endorphins are small, protein molecules that are produced by cells in your nervous system and other parts of your body. An important role of endorphins is to work with sedative receptors that are known to relieve common pain. These drug-producing receptors are located in your brain, spinal cord, and other nerve endings. Endorphins come in several forms, and can be anywhere from eighteen to five hundred times as powerful as any man-made drug. Did I mention that endorphins are non-addictive too?
Because of this, the effects from the release of endorphins is all pros and no cons. It has been shown to control consistent pain, cravings for chocolate, potentially addictive substances, and feelings of stress/frustration. In addition to these beneficial “side effects”, endorphins can regulate the production of growth and sex hormones and reduce symptoms associated with eating disorders.
If you are looking to get high legally, then this is the way too go (and of coarse, it’s free). There are many ways to feel the endorphins take effect. It could be as easy as laughing or seeing the chiropractor for an adjustment. You get the drift? BUT if you REALLY want to feel the endorphins go full-speed ahead, then go do some exercise. Running, weight training, swimming, etc. are all great. You can get creative with your workouts and find something that suits you.
The next time you have that day where you want to throw the copy machine out the window, go hit the gym or do some cardiovascular exercise. Feeling the urge to have an “adult-beverage”? Try going to see a comedy show for some laughs instead. The more times you get into the habit of releasing those miracle endorphins rather then going out for a Whopper or downing some beers, the easier it will be to suppress those urges to sabotage your body. You will feel more mentally tough, and physically stronger in many ways. Keep this in mind the next time you think you could use this “drug” and give it a shot (not like a syringe, but I’m sure you already knew what I meant by that).
Do your body a favor and treat it with respect. If you can do that, the rewards will be endless and keep on giving back. Hope all is well to whoever is reading this.
David Mann – Somagenesis Health and Fitness CPT NASM
There are other methods to feel better. . .
Tags: Endorphins, Exercise, fitness, health, personal trainer, san diego, somagenesis
