What are endorphins?
Endorphins are naturally-occurring “morphine-like” substances in the brain and spinal cord that are involved in affecting pain sensitivity in individuals. They are also released in the brain during exercise, certain types of stress, relaxation, and perhaps when people take drugs such as heroin and alcohol. Endorphins work by activating opioid receptors – the same receptors that are affected by opiate pain killers (strong analgesics).