Welcome to Endorphins, the 4th and final part of the Happiness Hormones series in my weekly bulletin and on my podcast, Positively Anti-Inflammatory.
Endorphins, thought of as hormones, are actually neurotransmitters that primarily help us deal with stress and reduce feelings of pain.
Endorphins are known as “feel-good” chemicals. They are natural painkillers because they inhibit the transmission of pain signals in the nervous system and act on our brain’s opiate receptors to increase our overall feeling of wellbeing by boosting sensations of pleasure.
Benefits of endorphins
Help lower stress and anxiety
Ease symptoms of depression
Improve levels of confidence and increase self-esteem
Improve mood
Regulate of appetite
Enhance immune response
Support immune function
Alleviate pain
What causes endorphin deficiency?
Chronic stress and adrenal fatigue
Inadequate sleep
Blood sugar imbalance
Poor gut health
Excess caffeine and alcohol consumption
Physical or emotional trauma
If your body is not producing enough endorphins you may experience symptoms or be at an increased risk of developing certain health conditions such as
Depression or anxiety
Moodiness
Body aches and pains
Fibromyalgia
Problems with addiction
Trouble sleeping
Impulsive behavior
11 ways to increase endorphin production
Exercise regularly. Choose activities that keep your body moving like brisk walking, hiking or swimming
Eat dark chocolate, at least 70% cacao
Create or enjoy art
Listen to or play music
Dance
Acupuncture
Meditation
Massage
Aromatherapy (e.g. lavender stimulates feel-good properties that help you relax, fall asleep more easily and cope with stress)
Sex
Laugh and play
So there you have it! The Happiness Hormones. A fun way to remember them is to think of a “DOSE” of happiness
Dopamine - pleasure, motivator in the brain’s reward system Oxytocin - bonding, love, trust Serotonin - mood stabilizer, wellbeing, happiness Endorphins - pain relief, runner’s high, relaxation
Now go and enjoy yourself this week by engaging in activities that bring you connection, relaxation and pleasure.
Love, Your Wellness Coach,
Alyssa
P.S. ~ ~ Are you dealing with chronic health issues, feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start? I can help you. Email me to set up your free consult call.
P.P.S. Listen to podcast episode 127, Endorphins: Happiness Hormones Part 4.
May 31, 2023
