Yep, we all have happy hormones in our body and there are things we can do on a daily basis to actually boost those hormones to improve our mood.
Are you in for a daily mood boost?
I am, and my hormones play a big role in that.
Here’s a breakdown of our happy hormones:
Dopamine: referred to as the hormone that triggers feelings of joy and satisfaction, dopamine acts as a neurotransmitter within the brain’s reward system. It also plays an important role in processes such as learning and memory retention.
Oxytocin: often called the “love hormone,” oxytocin plays a vital part in reproductive processes like childbirth and breastfeeding. It can enhance feelings of trust, empathy, and bonding in a relationship (especially parent-child bonding). Physical closeness can often lead to a rise in oxytocin levels. We’ve all felt this!
Endorphins: this hormone is the body’s natural method for alleviating pain. It is generated in reaction to stress or physical discomfort, but also endorphin levels might also rise when you are involved in fun activities that offer rewards. Think… eating or exercising.
Serotonin: it is both a hormone and neurotransmitter and helps to balance mood. It also helps in regulating sleep patterns, appetite, digestion, learning, and memory.
Here are 3 ideas that you can do every day to get those happy hormones on the rise:
1. Regular exercise: this releases endorphins and promotes the production of dopamine.
2. Spending time outside in nature: some regular nature time increases serotonin levels and can reduce stress and anxiety.
3. Practicing gratitude: this can activate the release of oxytocin, promoting feelings of love and appreciation.
Fun fact: green tea and probiotics can help to increase dopamine and serotonin.
Spend a few weeks trying these things and see if your mood improves. I am guessing that will be a huge YES!
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