“Laughin’, laughin′ with our friends…” – “Cherry Bomb,” John Mellencamp, 1986
Who doesn’t want to feel good, show of hands?
While I do not have the panacea to ensure that for everyone, I do have some suggestions which you may wish to take under advisement. (No medical advice ever!) These suggestions come from a natural source, which is something I have written about a time or two over the years that I have reached out to my dear readers.
Anyone remember those endorphins? Endorphins are the body’s natural painkillers and can relieve pain, release stress, and create a general feeling of well-being.1 Sign me up!
More good news? Most of the activities which can release those awesome endorphins are no-cost and easily attained! That certainly does not describe many health-related fixes these days. Let’s look at some of the choices to release those endorphins and achieve a healthier, happier you!
- Exercise – Something we can all participate in on some level. A moderately intense pace daily will do the trick, with a brisk walk being ideal for releasing endorphins. Swimming, dancing, cycling also fall into this category
- Laughter – Note the quote I have used this week. Deep laughter, even anticipating it, helps reduce stress hormones and produces beta-endorphins. Laughter can also alter levels of serotonin and dopamine. (Find a source of laughter every day; talking with friends, watching a funny movie, or simply finding joy and thankfulness in your life.)
- Meditation and Social Interaction – Deep breathing exercises, focusing your brain, and yoga promote relaxation and raises those endorphin levels. Spending time with loved ones, hugging, or any social activities can also boost those levels.
- Sensory Pleasures – Okay, I am just the messenger here. Massage, sexual activity, or even smelling certain scents (aromatherapy) can stimulate endorphin release.
- Playing music – Listening to your favorite music, singing, dancing, playing an instrument can release a rush of endorphins.
- Ultraviolet light – Spending time outdoors in the sun (and in nature) stimulates the release of beta-endorphins in the skin.
While all of these suggestions may not work for you or your lifestyle, I encourage you to consider how you can incorporate some of the activities which will enable your body to benefit from these important natural painkillers and enhance your quality of life.
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.
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