Engage your Endorphins
Our bodies are equipped with little wonder molecules that, when properly ignited, are capable of lifting your spirits in ways you never thought imaginable. These naturally occurring wonder drugs are called endorphins. Endorphins are neurotransmitters that offer a variety of health benefits including emotional elation, stress reduction, improved immune systems, and decreased pain perception. As a mother of two I deemed it necessary to equip all moms, and their little ones, with easy ways to tap into our endorphin banks.
It is actually quite easy to get your endorphins flowing and to begin the transformation from tired and over-worked mom into a joyful ball of energy. Some popular endorphin energizers that will have you feeling happy and healthy in a jiffy include:
- Laughter: We have all heard that laughter is the best medicine and more and more evidence is proving this adage to be true. Cardiologists at the University of Maryland found that laughter increased blood flow about as much as some cholesterol-lowering medications or light exercise. Although the researchers did not recommend laughter over exercise, they did recommend a combination of both.
- Chocolate: I absolutely adore chocolate and, when consumed responsibly, it may even be good for you. Scientists have found that dark chocolate contains antioxidants that can help maintain cardiovascular health. Although the jury is still out on the degree of health benefits offered by chocolate, I am here to say it does wonders for my soul. It helps rev up endorphins and is associated with feelings of comfort and contentment, both of which come in mighty handy in the fast-paced world of motherhood.
- Chili Peppers: The hotter the better when it comes to chili peppers and endorphins. Bell peppers are relatively mild while habaneros will have you doing a jig! The ingredients from chili peppers are also used to treat arthritic pain when used topically.
*Caution: Avoid use in the very young and very old.
- Exercise: The runners high experienced by athletes is a sought after feeling. Although I do not run, I can ellipticize my little heart out all for the purpose of achieving that awesome endorphin rush. Remember, exercise is our friend! Regular exercise not only helps our bodys look more fit and tone, but also helps us smile.
- Massage: A professional massage releases endorphins, increases circulation, and stimulates the nervous and lymphatic systems. If you cant afford one from the pros, three-year-olds are easy to teach!
- Meditation: When our bodies are in a relaxed state, as with meditation, this triggers the outflow of endorphins. Its easy to do and is free-of-charge. Just close your eyes and concentrate solely on your breath going in and out in a slow and relaxed state. Meditation also increases blood flow, slows heart rate, and decreases muscle tension.
Whether you decide to take a family trip to Hersheys Park this summer, or opt for a private spa excursion, remember that happy moms create happy homes. And, although we dont like to take our endorphins for granted, when it comes to brightening up our days and our childrens lives, we must seize the opportunity.