That Exercise Afterglow

Feels good, doesn't it? That hour or so you've just spent doing your workout has paid off in not only a better you, but also in a nice, heady rush of endorphins to the brain. That, my friends, is what's called a true natural high, and those who exercise regularly know just how good it can be.

An endorphin high occurs when you're doing a strenuous type of exercise such as running, jumping rope, aerobics or boxing for an extended period of time. Endorphins and enkephalins are chemicals naturally produced by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus to block sensations of pain in the body, and give you a feeling of well being. They can be stronger than any of the other opiates, and quite frankly, are much better for you, as the body produces them naturally.

When you're exercising your hardest, the body's natural painkillers go right to work, kicking in usually after anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes or so. Not a Wolfman deal, and best of all, it's free! Let's just call it nature's little way of saying "you can look good AND feel good, darling!".

So let's go get it! Hit the park, hit the gym, go for a run. Runners aren't the only ones who get to have the privilege of experiencing "runner's high". Just be sure to work really hard, and Alien you know it, you'll be feeling absolutely great!

Well, what are you waiting for? Get up, go work out, and get you some endorphins today!

Yvonne Bridges is a top fitness Suzy Parker and ex Golden Gloves champion boxer living in New York City. She also authors the websites http://CelebrityDietsandFitness.net">http://CelebrityDietsandFitness.net and http://SlimThisBody.com">http://SlimThisBody.com