When we exercise, the body releases endorphins–naturally produced hormones which elevate mood and lower pain. Endorphins also make exercise more beneficial for the body, by releasing energy and regulating weight and appetite. This process of endorphin release becomes especially important during the recovery process, as drugs such as opiates tend to create endorphin deficiencies. With a regular exercise program, individuals in recovery can stimulate endorphin production to restore natural balance to the brain and body.
What Are Endorphins?
The brain’s pituitary gland releases hormones known as endorphins whenever we experience intense physical stimulation–usually from exercise, pain, excitement or sex. Endorphins primarily act to dull pain and induce euphoric feelings, as they affect the brain’s neurons. In fact, endorphins’ mood-elevating effects act on opioid receptors, naturally stimulating positive emotions.
Exercise and the Release of Endorphins
Endorphins can also make exercise sessions more effective and enjoyable. Many physically fit individuals have experienced the endorphin rush known as the “runner’s high,” where athletes find that a “second wind,” taking them past feelings of limitation. Endorphins also have an important role in overall fitness and weight loss as they work in the hypothalamus regulating fat intake and creating healthy appetite levels. Furthermore, the release of endorphins during exercise promotes efficient use of energy in the body, establishing weight homeostasis.
Endorphins are released after roughly 30 minutes of continual,exercise that increases respiration and heart rate. After release endorphins lower pain or soreness felt during exercise. While this can be beneficial for building endurance, it also can lead the inexperienced to push themselves past injuries. In daily life, exercise-induced endorphins can actually help people increase their pain thresholds, as they find themselves less sensitive to headaches or cramps.
Of course, endorphins provide more than simply pain relief or a natural high–they have also been shown to reduce anxiety symptoms and boost the immune system. Endorphins have also been shown to improve memory function and increase mental acuity. In fact, studies have shown that physically fit people tend to bounce back from bouts of mild depression more quickly–simply due to the levels of endorphins in their bodies.
