THE ENDORPHINS; NATURAL PAIN RELIVERS AND INITIATERS OF SPONTANEOUS HEALING

Published by Ms Aleena Raza at April 19, 2021

Reviewer : Dr. Marium

Endorphins are related to one of the many genius methods through which the body is able to deal with mass amounts of stress, pain and suffering therefore it’s important to acknowledge the significance of its functioning and presence within the body.

Endorphins, as well as functioning as neurotransmitters i.e. chemical messengers that carry signals between nerve cells in the central nervous system also serve other purposes in the body, however its main role is to provide a relief from any discomfort or pain whether its physical or mental , this is essentially achieved by endorphins otherwise known as peptide hormone being secreted into the circulatory system by the pituitary gland (it a small pea-sized gland located at base of the brain; plays a major role in regulating vital body functions and general well-being), the release of this particular hormone is triggered by a number of factors including any form of vigorous aerobic exercises, laughter or even certain foods encouraging the brain’s release of endorphins.

Studies conclude endorphins have clinically been linked to various cases of mental issues inclusive of autism (developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior), depression and depersonalization (a disorder marked by periods of feeling disconnected or detached from one’s body and thoughts) as well as being produced as a result of the obvious feel-good activities such as laughter and vigorous aerobic exercises, however it wasn’t well known until further research suggested that the act of crying does in fact promote the release of endorphins questioning the idea if tears are generated for this reason.

Endorphins are one of the four hormones or chemicals released by the body, which are commonly known as ‘happy hormones’ working along with dopamine, oxytocin and serotonin which all play a significant role in boosting the body’s emotional response to certain activities.

In further detail each of the feel-good hormones are responsible for key emotional responses of behavioral changes in coordination to life experiences, for example Dopamine is related with pleasurable sensations, learning, memory, functions of the motor system and more.

Serotonin assists the regulation of mood, sleep, appetite, digestion, learning ability and more whereas oxytocin is associated as the love hormone which strengthens the bonding of a parent and child relations due to its necessary needs in child birth and breast-feeding as well as encouraging trust, empathy and bonding in other relationships.

Finally endorphins which are vital in interaction with the receptor in your brain that reduces the perception of pain stimulating a positive feeling.

Hormones which are released while crying for long periods of time involve endogenous opioids (endorphins) as well as oxytocin.

[Endogenous opioids are chemicals produced in the body which are pain relivers.]

It could be said the body holds all the resources to its own healing process and endorphins act as a prime example to this notion, endorphins are able to block the perception of pain the body is experiencing due to its interaction with the receptors in your brain that in turn reduce the senses of any pain being presented, activating a positive feeling in the body similar to the effects of morphine (pain medication of the opioid family). The fact our body produces an almost natural replica of morphine is a fascinating discovery to say the least; it is said the pain relief endorphins release is determined to be on a higher level to that of the effects of morphine.

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