The Bliss Molecule

 

Endocannabinoids are compounds produced within the body that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and elsewhere throughout the body.

Anandamide, also known as the bliss molecule, is one of the most important endocannabinoids. In fact, "Anada" translates to bliss in sanskrit.

Activation and binding of anandamide to our cannabinoid receptors results from our body’s constant pursuit to achieve and maintain balance.

When our cells, organs, and systems begin to shift away from their balance points, our endocannabinoid system kicks in and anandamide is released.

These cannabinoid receptors can be found in our brain, central nervous system, heart, liver, spleen, pancreas, skin, white blood cells, reproductive organs, and in the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts.

Because these cannabinoid receptors are located in so many places, the effects of the bliss molecule are widespread.

Anandamide is linked to mental health and well-being.

Suboptimal levels of anandamide can drain you of happiness, increase fear and anxiety, and rob you of the ability to cope with stress.

Anandamide synthesizes in areas of the brain where memory, motivation, cognitive processes, and movement control are managed. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, the bliss molecule can influence physiological systems such as pain, mood, appetite regulation, pleasure, and reward.

Additionally, anandamide has been shown to promote neurogenesis, boost the formation of new nerve cells, and to slow cancer cell proliferation.

The bliss molecule is linked to an elevation in mood, mindset, and happiness.

Anandamide is a fragile molecule produced on demand in the brain within neurons. Once produced, anandamide is quickly broken down into other compounds by the degrading enzyme called FAAH (fatty acid amide hydrolase).

Some people, by virtue of genetic mutation, have the ability to block FAAH from degrading anandamide. With naturally higher levels of anandamide, they enjoy less anxiety and fearfulness than the rest of us.

Research suggests that anandamide can remodel the process of brain reward circuitry.

Anandamide is also known as a molecule that helps you to forget bad memories. Higher levels of anandamide may lead to a greater ability to erase fear-based memories. 

 

Other ways to naturally increase your bliss molecule include:

Exercising for at least 30 minutes facilitates the production of anandamide. In fact, a “runner's high” is due to anandamide, not endorphins .

Chocolate

Eating chocolate boosts anandamide in two ways — by stimulating the endocannabinoid receptors and by blocking anandamide’s breakdown. A simple way to increase anandamide levels is by eating dark chocolate.

Little wonder why chocolate is the number one food craving.

 

 In the Zone

When you're doing something that you really love, you get lost in it and time fades away. It’s a state of heightened concentration, called flow. In the flow state, the brain releases anandamide.

To experience the benefits of anandamide for yourself, be sure to shop through our collections of CBD products for different mindsets. They can help increase your bliss molecule. To learn more or have any questions answered, be sure to contact us today!

 

Disclaimer: Information provided by MindsetWellnessCBD.com is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Though we always strive to provide accurate information, we make no representation and assume no responsibility for the accuracy of information on or available through our website, and this information is subject to change without notice. You should consult with a qualified health care professional before making changes to your lifestyle, starting any new health care regimen, or if you have, or suspect you might have, a health problem.