Why Exercise And Endorphins Make You Happy

Why Exercise And Endorphins Make You Happy http://bit.ly/20tjRnM

Avid exercisers often enjoy a euphoric feeling after their workouts. Sometimes called a “runner’s high,” this notable post-workout boost in happiness and energy levels is what keeps many devoted exercisers coming back for more.

The feel-good vibes are typically attributed to endorphins, which are neurochemicals produced in your brain’s hypothalamus and pituitary gland. These natural painkillers are similar in structure to the drug morphine and activate opioid receptors in your brain to help minimize pain.

Endorphins are linked to your body’s reward circuits as well and are associated with other feel-good activities like maternal behavior, eating and drinking or having sex.1

Endorphins in your blood also increase in response to pain and stress, such as exercise, and it’s long been suggested that these endorphins help people feel good after their workouts. There’s even a term, “endorphin junkie,” often used by gym rats who are “addicted” to the exercise “high.” There’s just one problem.

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