Endorphins: The Original Feel-Good Cocktail
By Gary Picariello
I've heard two trains of thought concerning endorphins. The first is that these neurochemicals are kind of like Mother Nature's feel-good cocktail: when you do pleasurable activities (like eating a pepperoni pizza, playing with a puppy or being romantic with your loved one), endorphins kick in and produce feelings of general well-being. And in fact, I feel pretty darn good when I'm doing any of the above.
The other train of thought is that when you are in pain, the effect of endorphins is akin to morphine. And, as explains J. Kip Matthews, PhD, a sport and exercise psychologist, “Endorphins activate opioid receptors in the brain that help minimize discomfort.” There have been times I've been in serious pain (tore a hamstring, blew out my knee), but I don't know to what degree the pain was more or less based on how my body reacted.
Hurts So Good
That said, there may be some truth to your brain kicking into a defense mode. Research seems to bear out that exercise can help you ward off feelings of depression. And in fact, I've had bad days turn into days that were much more optimistic thanks to a good run and a few sets of push-ups and sit-ups.
What seems to be happening, studies show, is that your brain goes into overdrive when you exercise and increases production of these endorphins, which in turns sends a positive signal throughout your body. Over time, you condition your body as well. The brain relates exercise with feeling good. Or any pleasurable activity. Which is why if you enjoy eating a pepperoni pizza the suggestion of same elicits a positive vibe (whereas kissing my mother-in-law does not).
Pain, Pain Go Away
Studies have linked a change in mood to physical activity in general and exercise in particular. Although there is a difference between the two, says the Mayo Clinic, physical activity and exercise are both beneficial. Doing things that you enjoy and make you feel good is an admirable goal. You can even condition yourself to have fun doing things you don't enjoy. Either way, you can thank endorphins for the assist in how you feel!
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Brookfield, Wis.