by Silvia Dekumbis

Created on: September 03, 2009   Last Updated: September 05, 2009

Endorphins are chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters. They are also known as our natural pain killers. They transmit electrical signals within the nervous system. They are mostly found in the pituitary gland and interact with the opiate receptors in the brain to reduce our perception of pain.

In addition to decreased feelings of pain, we experience euphoria, a change in appetite, release of sex hormones, and enhancement of the immune response. With high levels of these natural chemicals, we feel less pain and fewer negative effects of stress. High levels of endorphins in the brain produce a sense of euphoria (happiness), enhance pleasure and suppress pain, on an emotional and physical level while low levels of endorphins will make people feel more anxious, maybe irritated. They feel pain, emotionally and physically. Often enough, low levels of endorphins will give us cravings for fatty or fat-producing foods. We might even experience cravings for sugar, a sign our seratonin level is low. We reach for potato chips or chocolate to satisfy our craving.

The level of endorphin release differ between individuals. This means that two people who exercise at the same level or suffer the same degree of pain will not necessarily produce similar levels of this natural feel-good drug.

Certain foods can also lead to enhanced secretion of these neurotransmitters. The spicier a chili pepper, the more natural pain killers are secreted. Chocolate is another food item that stimulates the release. This explains why so many people crave chocolate during stressful times, not necessarily the healthiest way to attack a hormonal imbalance.

Instead of reaching for the wrong food, we have other alternatives as well. One of the simplest ways to release endorphins is through exercising. Exercising will increase our metabolism and release body fat. Even a simple walk through the forest will release endorphins.

Another form of endorphin release that requires no effort is Massage Therapy. Massage Therapy which has been documented to release a high concentration of endorphins comes with a long list of very positive benefits (some of them unknown to us). Amongst these many benefits, it has been known to release many therapeutic mood and health enhancing chemicals. Our skin is full of many millions of nerve receptors that are linked to our nervous system. When the skin is massaged it causes stimulation and release of chemicals in the brain. For instance, it increases dopamine and serotonin and reduces the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. It increases the relaxation alpha brain waves and it increases the release of natural pain killers. One reason why people feel very relaxed and rejuvenated after a Massage.

Sex is also a potent trigger, and even meditation has been shown to activate this natural process.

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