When you exercise, your body releases a number of neurotransmitters and hormones that can have a positive effect on your mood and overall well-being. The following are some of the hormones that are released during exercise:

• Endorphins: These are chemicals that interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain. Endorphins also trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine. The feeling that follows a run or workout is often described as "euphoric." That feeling, known as a "runners high," can be accompanied by a positive and energizing outlook on life.

• Endocannabinoids: These are biochemical substances similar to cannabis but naturally produced by the body. Exercise increases the levels of endocannabinoids in the bloodstream, which can move easily through the cellular barrier separating the bloodstream from the brain, where these mood-improving neuromodulators promote short-term psychoactive effects such as reduced anxiety and feelings of calm.

• Dopamine: This is a neurotransmitter that regulates a variety of processes in the body. Exercise helps to release dopamine, which can have a positive effect on mood, motivation, and attention.

• Serotonin: This is another neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. Exercise can help to increase serotonin levels, which can have a positive effect on mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

• Human Growth Hormone (HGH): This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and is involved in the growth and repair of tissues in the body. Exercise can help to increase HGH levels, which can have a positive effect on muscle growth and recovery.

• Testosterone: This is a hormone that is produced by both men and women, although it is often associated with male physiology. Testosterone helps to maintain reproductive tissue, bone health, libido, and mood. Resistance training can help to increase testosterone levels, which can have a positive effect on muscle mass and fat distribution.

• Cortisol: This is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal gland in response to stress, low blood sugar, and exercise. Cortisol supports energy metabolism during long periods of exercise by facilitating the breakdown of triglyceride and protein to create the glucose necessary to help fuel exercise. Cortisol is released when the body experiences too much physical stress or is not sufficiently recovered from a previous workout.

In summary, exercise can help to regulate stress hormones and trigger the release of mood-boosting neurotransmitters and hormones. The hormones released during exercise can have a positive effect on mood, motivation, attention, muscle growth, and recovery.