How To Give A Boost To Your Happy Hormones Naturally
Happiness is what we all seek; it is the ultimate quest. While the question of what truly makes us happy has been debated by philosophers, prophets, and spiritual leaders for centuries, science simply defines happiness as a state of mind which is influenced by endogenic (biological, cognitive, personality and ethical sub-factors) and exogenic (behavioural, social-cultural, economical, geographical, life events and aesthetics sub-factors) factors. Understandably, given the stressful environment we live in, the external factors are not always in our control, and thus sometimes we tend to feel low. But the good news is, we are completely capable of making choices that can naturally give a boost to some of our happy hormones, which play a key role in making us happy.
These “happy hormones” include — Dopamine often called as the ‘feel-good hormone’ that is associated with pleasurable sensations, Serotonin which helps regulate our mood as well as our sleep, Oxytocin also known as the ‘love hormone’ is associated with how people bond and trust each other and Endorphins, which are our body’s natural pain reliever. Interestingly, something as simple as exercising and stepping out can release these happiness hormones. Here’s a look at a few effective ways to naturally boost and make the most of these hormones.
Listen To Music
Music has an extremely uplifting effect on most of us. Studies have proven that listening to the music you love gives a boost to the feel-good dopamine and is a fabulous way to feel cheerful immediately.
Soak Up The Sun
Trust us, there is no better mood uplifter than the sun. Studies have shown that exposure to sunlight boosts the production of serotonin and endorphins in your body. Furthermore, your body also needs sunlight to synthesise vitamin D, which is an essential vitamin for the production of chemicals such as dopamine and norepinephrine and acetylcholine. So, go ahead, take a break from your screen, spend some time outdoors, and soak up the sun. Bliss is guaranteed. Get A massage
Ever wondered why a massage makes you feel relaxed, revived and relieved? Well, touch-oriented therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, hydrotherapy and massage are known to charge up all your happy hormones. So, go ahead, book your long-pending massage appointment now.
Take Time Out To Exercise
Following a regular exercise routine has multiple health benefits. Not only does it give physical health benefits, but exercising also has a positive impact on your mental well-being. Exercising is the most effective way to increase serotonin and endorphin levels, which in return boosts your mood and energy levels. A consistent workout regime also improves dopamine level and is effective to elevate your happy hormones. So, the next time you feeling low, step out for a walk or hop on to the treadmill and sweat it out, and see how you start feeling upbeat again.
Practice Meditation
Meditation is another great tool for your complete well-being. Not only does it help reduce stress, increase focus, and improve your sleep habits, it also helps give a boost to dopamine production in your body. Research further suggests that mediation stimulates the release of endorphins, dopamine, serotonin and melatonin. When all these chemicals together flood the bloodstream, it makes the meditator calm, happy and blissful.
Spend Time With Loved Ones
One can’t deny the fact that our smile is the brightest in the company of our near and dear ones. Spending time with people we love has a pleasurable effect on us as it gives a boost to our oxytocin levels. Hugging or cuddling the ones we love even for 30 seconds fires up our oxytocin levels. Hence instead of showering your love on social media, go and hug your friend, cuddle your pet, kiss your partner. You would be surprised to notice how showering love can make you joyful instantly.
Get Productive
Engaging in productive activities, especially the ones you love, can result in the release of dopamine and endorphins. Be it painting, cooking, dancing — the joy of doing something you like is very rewarding and gives a boost to dopamine.
Make A Furry Friend
Dogs and cats are indeed our best friend as they can help release the feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin. Studies have shown that petting a dog or cat for just a few minutes releases the feel-good hormones and reduces the stress hormone — cortisol. In fact, spending time with your furry friend can also help lower blood pressure, improve loneliness and lower negativity. So, if you don’t have a pet yet, make friends with one now.
Eat chocolate
Dark chocolate is known to be an instant mood lifter. Reason being — it triggers the release of the happy hormone endorphin. That apart, chocolate also has several health benefits as it reduces inflammation, lowers blood pressure and is also beneficial for your arteries.
Note: If you feel consistently unhappy, low and depressed, please see a doctor immediately.
Photos: istockphoto
