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Endocannabinoids vs Endorphins: The Real Exercise High

If you’ve ever gone for a long run — or pushed through a tough spin class, dance session, or hike — you’ve probably felt that unmistakable afterglow. Your breathing slows, your muscles soften, and your mind feels a little clearer. For decades, this sensation was credited to endorphins, but growing research points to endocannabinoids — the body’s own cannabis-like compounds produced by the endocannabinoid system (ECS). — as the more likely source of that post-exercise high and sense of calm.

At Fairwinds, we’ve long been advocates for the power of the ECS — the vast and intelligent network of receptors, enzymes, and molecules that help maintain balance in the body. From mood and sleep to pain and inflammation, the ECS plays a vital role in helping us feel our best. And now, science suggests it may also be the key player in the so-called “runner’s high.”

Endorphins vs. Endocannabinoids: What’s the Difference?

Let’s start with endorphins. These hormone-like chemicals are released during periods of stress or pain (like exercise), helping to block pain signals and promote physical endurance. The catch? Endorphins don’t cross the blood-brain barrier, which means they likely don’t affect your mood as directly as once thought.

Enter endocannabinoids — lipid-based neurotransmitters like anandamide, often nicknamed the “bliss molecule.” According to a 2023 study published in Progress in Neurobiology, aerobic exercise significantly increases circulating endocannabinoid levels, particularly anandamide. Unlike endorphins, endocannabinoids can freely cross into the brain, where they bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors — the same receptors activated by plant-based cannabinoids like THC and CBD.

The result? Elevated mood, reduced anxiety, a sense of calm, and pain relief. Sound familiar?

How Endocannabinoids Supports the Exercise Afterglow

Your ECS is especially active during aerobic activity. As your heart rate rises, so do your levels of circulating endocannabinoids. These compounds interact with cannabinoid receptors in your brain and throughout your body, resulting in:

A reduction in anxiety and stress response
Short-term mood elevation (the true “high”)
Decreased pain perception
Enhanced feelings of well-being and calm

In essence, the ECS creates the internal conditions for mental clarity, emotional release, and physical recovery — without requiring you to light up a joint or take a tincture (though we’re not saying that would hurt).

The Cannabis x Running Trend

As more people begin to recognize the role of the endocannabinoid system in both exercise and mental well-being, a growing number of athletes and wellness brands are exploring how cannabis and movement work together. The trend of pairing running with cannabinoids is gaining attention — with brands like Offfield and Marz promoting cannabis-infused hydration and movement-focused products. While some newer companies are just now entering this space, we’ve been formulating cannabis wellness products to support this connection since 2014. At Fairwinds, we’ve always believed in the synergy between physical activity and targeted cannabis use, designing products to elevate performance, enhance recovery, and bring balance to mind and body. For us, it’s not a trend — it’s part of our foundation.

The Long-Term Mental Benefits of Exercise and Endocannabinoids

The good news doesn’t stop when your shoes come off. Consistent cardiovascular exercise stimulates not only your ECS but also long-term brain health. Research shows that regular aerobic activity:

Increases blood flow and nourishes the brain
Promotes neurogenesis (the creation of new brain cells)
Expands the hippocampus, the brain’s center for learning and memory
Sharpens working memory, focus, and cognitive flexibility
Blunts your brain’s stress response, lowering your overall anxiety and improving mood regulation

According to neurobiologist David Linden, PhD, voluntary exercise is “the single best thing one can do to slow the cognitive decline that accompanies normal aging.” We’d add: it’s also one of the best ways to naturally activate your endocannabinoid system — and feel good doing it.

What This Means for Cannabis Wellness

The link between movement and your ECS highlights why many active adults are turning to cannabinoid-based wellness products to support their routines. Products like CBD tinctures, topicals, and balanced THC:CBD formulas may help extend the natural effects of exercise — calming the nervous system, reducing inflammation, and enhancing recovery.

Whether you’re new to running or a seasoned athlete, understanding your ECS is a game-changer. At Fairwinds, we’re proud to offer products that work with your body’s natural systems — not against them.

So next time you hit the trail or the treadmill, know this: your ECS has your back (and your mood). And if you need a little extra help recovering afterward, we’ve got you covered there, too.