ENDORPHINS: WHAT THEY ARE AND HOW TO STIMULATE PLEASURE HORMONES

Our body provides us with a series of "substances" that can be useful in various situations, even when we do not realize it. These include endorphins, hormones produced by the brain and classified as neurotransmitters. Thanks to their properties, endorphins perform many functions favorable to our well-being, such as, for example, controlling appetite and temperature, acting in an analgesic way against pain and bringing a feeling of pleasure and happiness.

What Are Endorphins?

Endorphins are protein hormones that are distinguished by their activity as neurotransmitters, i.e. they act in the transmission of messages to the nervous system. These substances are produced by the brain at the level of the anterior lobe of the pituitary, in the adrenal gland and at the level of the gastrointestinal system. of truly remarkable properties, without the side effects of any other type of opiate substance.Among the best known properties are the analgesic ones and, in general, the mechanisms related to the control of pain and pleasure.

Currently four distinct classes of endorphins are known, respectively called "alpha", "beta", "gamma" and "delta".

The functions of endorphins

As we have already mentioned, the properties and benefits of endorphins are numerous. The main positive effects exerted by these hormones on our and our minds are the following:

Analgesic action

Also known as "endogenous morphines", endorphins can be considered as natural pain relievers. Not surprisingly, science is increasingly aiming at an endogenous type of medicine, which does not involve the side effects and addiction of other synthetic substances. Endorphins help to raise the pain threshold and promote relaxation, also counteracting disorders dictated not only by physical suffering but also by mental suffering due to stress.

Regulation of the menstrual cycle, sleep, appetite and body temperature

Endorphins are responsible for controlling various "situations" in our body. First of all, it has been noted that their lowering increases the psychological stress that underlies the premenstrual syndrome. Therefore, keeping the concentration of these hormones stable helps prevent physical and mental discomfort due to the menstrual cycle. Similarly, endorphins have a placebo effect with respect to anxiety states by promoting sleep and act on the control of appetite and body temperature.

They promote the feeling of well-being, pleasure and fulfillment

Finally, probably the best known action of endorphins. In fact, these substances intervene in the mechanism of "brain reward", that is the search and the will to repeat all those activities that lead to pleasure. In addition, they have a powerful antidepressant effect. When we perform certain actions that stimulate the release of endorphins, we feel immediately satisfied with ourselves, perceiving an "immediate feeling of well-being.

The relationship between physical activity and endorphins

Many scientific studies have brought to everyone's attention the close link that exists between the release of endorphins and sport. In fact, it has been found that the production of these substances increases in relation to physical activity, provided that the latter is practiced for at least 30-40 minutes. The stimulation of these hormones leads to that "unmistakable feeling of euphoria and satisfaction that the sporitives know very well. This phenomenon has also been said Runner "s high, which literally means "runner's high". A name not given by chance, precisely because it seems to resemble the euphoria caused by the intake of certain supefacient substances.

The first research in this sense was based on competitive athletes, especially marathon runners, cyclists and those specializing in aerobic activities. Furthermore, as endorphins lower the pain threshold and the perception of fatigue, they promote a positive effect on sports performance.

How to stimulate the release of endorphins

We have seen how endorphins have a beneficial effect on both our body and mind. How is it possible, therefore, to increase its production? It may surprise you, but the release of these hormones can be increased by carrying out activities and gestures that we often take for granted and which, on the other hand, can help us much more than we think.

1. Exercise

As we have already said, the release of endorphins is closely linked to physical exercise Runner "s High it seems excessive, don't worry: you don't necessarily have to run a marathon to enjoy the feeling of euphoria and well-being caused by pleasure hormones. Start with the sport you like best and try to practice it regularly It can be a bike ride, a walk in nature, swimming, skating or playing volleyball - anything as long as it's an activity you enjoy and keep you moving. You will see that an endorphin rush will not be long in coming.

2. Listen to your favorite music

In recent years, science has become increasingly interested in the power of music. How many times have you been down in the dumps and start your favorite playlist or are happy for a good news and go wild to the rhythm of a particular song? good vibes? Here, these actions that may seem random, instead have a very precise explanation. The production of endorphins is stimulated by "listening to music: in this way, almost automatically" the pain threshold in the body is raised and positive effects occur on our mental and physical well-being.

3. Stay in the open air

Whether it's a walk in the middle of nature or just lying in a park during a spring day, the result doesn't change. Experts have noted how being outdoors positively affects our mood and mind. In particular, a study conducted by Harvard University has shown that exposure to sunlight stimulates not only vitamin D, but also the release of endogenous endorphins and serotonin, immediately giving us a feeling of happiness and contentment. In this regard, we recommend that you choose places in the countryside, sea or mountains as an escape from the daily routine, in short, an environment far from the hustle and bustle of big cities that often negatively affect our psyche.

4. Indulge in a sin of gluttony every now and then

It is true, to feel good about our body we must necessarily keep our nutrition under control and choose a healthy and balanced diet. However, what life would it be if sometimes we could not break the rule? chocolate or a taste of our favorite dish are capable of triggering a mechanism in the brain that immediately feels a sensation of satisfaction and pleasure, thanks to the production of endorphins. For this reason, after eating a food that we particularly like, we feel happy and in place with ourselves.

5. Give hugs!

Hugs, cuddles, kisses and caresses are good for our mind, even for those who normally shy away from physical contact. Science has noted how the demonstrations of affection stimulate the release of endorphins, even giving rise to an analgesic effect against pain in situations of severe psycho-physical stress, such as, for example, that of childbirth. Furthermore, it is now known that a simple hug can calm anxiety, strengthen the relationship between two people and even improve memory.

In the case of a couple, the amorous effusions induce the production of endorphins and pheromones, two hormones that combined together release a sensation of intense pleasure, during and after sexual intercourse.