The poppy plant has been grown in the Mediterranean region for thousands of years. This is where opium, morphine, codeine, and heroin are extracted from. Did you know that endorphins are like these related opiates? Endorphins stimulate the sensation of pleasure, a sense of feeling healthy, it is a feel-good hormone secreted from neurotransmitters. I read that some of the wounded Vietnam soldiers would not take any pain relief such as morphine for the purpose of stimulating the natural pain killer, endorphins, thus they would recover much sooner. Gratefully, we have diverse ways of inducing endorphins to generate opiate-like effects to mitigate pain and stress. Have you heard of runners that attest of experiencing "the runners high?"
Fortunately, we do not have to strain ourselves vigorously for endorphins to kick in and reap the benefit. I encourage you, take an exercise class, go for a bike ride, play tennis, finds ways to move more frequently. Finding ways to be industrious at the same time is a good motivator as well, such as doing gardening, washing your vehicle, or not waiting for Spring to do vigorous house cleaning. Another thing we can do that is less physically demanding is eating peppers. the hotter they are, if you can manage it, the more endorphins will be released. Science has discovered that peppers contain a chemical called capsaicin, which encourages the pain-relieving, feel-good effect in response to this hot sensation. Remember, the objective of the soldiers in Vietnam. I tend to enjoy a glass of wine at the end of a busy day, this too, will also induce endorphins. Both white and red wine contain antioxidants, and red wine contains resveratrol, which science has shown to mitigate inflammation, a culprit of many ailments. Red wine also can slow down the aging process, and safeguard against arterial atrophy. It is no wonder the Holy Writings indicate that "wine that makes man’s heart rejoice. Ps. 104:15. However, be cognizant of drinking only in moderation, for this can be an issue much like opiates can become habit forming. We have been discussing the four basic brain chemicals that are highly salubrious to be able to form lifelong desired habits. Of course, these are dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin and finally endorphins. And if you have notice these are interconnected, so, if you concentrate in inducing just one of these, you will positively affect your neurotransmitters, you will also be secreting these four chemicals. For example, laughter will stimulate all four chemicals, and it does feel good to have a good belly laugh. Do not inhibit the child within us, but continue to play with your children, with your friends in a lighthearted way, or even your dog. Unequivocally, you will experience stress reduction, and considering current events, this will improve your immune system.
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June 2024
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