You can thank your endorphins and other hormones, such as oxytocin , for that. Surging endorphins may help explain why sex offers other benefits beyond making you feel good, such as:. Whether you consider chocolate an occasional treat or enjoy it regularly, it can satisfy your sweet tooth.
Eating chocolate also produces endorphins, promoting feelings of bliss. Smiling or laughing at something funny can help lift a bad mood and relieve feelings of anxiety and stress. A small study found evidence to suggest watching half an hour of comedy with a group of friends boosted endorphin levels.
Comedy may not be the only genre that can boost your endorphin levels. Why does this happen? Well, watching something that appeals to your emotions can lead to sadness, a type of emotional pain. Your brain may react to these emotions by releasing endorphins in the same way it would if you experienced physical pain. Doing something kind benefits you as well as the people you help.
By helping another person, you might lighten their physical or emotional load, giving them the boost they need to get through the day. Simply listening to music can promote good feelings and an improved mood, but research suggests musical performance is more likely to boost endorphins than listening to music alone.
This may relate to the community aspect of performance, similar to the way social laughter is more likely to boost endorphins. Sunlight has more than one health benefit to offer. It helps your skin produce vitamin D , an essential nutrient. It also boosts production of serotonin and melatonin , which can help improve your mood, increase your energy, and help you get better sleep.
The ultraviolet radiation in sun can also boost your endorphin levels. Getting outside a few times a week for about 15 minutes at a time will generally be enough for you to benefit from sun exposure.
Always use sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher or cover exposed skin if you stay out for longer than 15 minutes. Massage therapy helps relieve stress and can help improve symptoms of some physical health concerns, such as chronic pain and fatigue. It can also have benefit during childbirth by reducing pain and increasing contractions, which can lead to a shorter labor. These benefits are associated with the multiple hormones, including endorphins, released by massage. So trade in your sneakers for figure skates and hit the ice.
Hockey — Looking for a cardio-intensive sport? Hockey is it. Studies show that hockey boosts mental strength and focus and burns at least calories an hour. It also improves flexibility and provides some of the same health benefits as ice skating. Sledding — Sledding incorporates a great workout with some winter fun.
Climbing to the top of a hill to sled back down is great for leg muscles and can burn up to calories an hour. Don't forget to take the kids! Shoveling snow — Shoveling snow may be a mundane task, but this winter activity is an aerobic exercise that burns up to calories an hour. The heavier the snow, the more calories burned. But shoveling can be dangerous so be careful not to slip and fall.
Story highlights When your body comes under stress or experiences pain, neurochemicals called endorphins are produced in the brain Endorphins were discovered 40 years ago Endorphins are considered natural painkillers because they activate opioid receptors in the brain that help minimize discomfort. What Are Endorphins? When your body comes under stress or experiences pain hello, burpees , neurochemicals called endorphins are produced in the brain's hypothalamus and pituitary gland, explains J.
Kip Matthews, Ph. D, a sport and exercise psychologist. Endorphins, which are structurally similar to the drug morphine, are considered natural painkillers because they activate opioid receptors in the brain that help minimize discomfort, says Matthews. They can also help bring about feelings of euphoria and general well-being.
Read More. Chasing the Runner's High. The idea that exercise creates a huge endorphin rush entered popular culture soon after endorphins were discovered 40 years ago, says Matthews. Learn about some of the top options for bodybuilders here. Endorphin release differs by exercise intensity, study finds Written by Honor Whiteman on August 26, Share on Pinterest Researchers suggests that the release of endorphins varies by exercise intensity.
Moderate vs. Written by Honor Whiteman on August 26, Latest news Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? Exposure to air pollutants may amplify risk for depression in healthy individuals. Related Coverage. NordicTrack Vault vs. Tempo review: What to know NordicTrack Vault and Tempo both offer workout mirrors suitable for exercising at home.
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