Happiness Hormones

Dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins are known as happy hormones that promote positive feelings like happiness, excitement, love and pleasure. Below is a quick break down of the different hormones and neurotransmitters and how you can boost them!

Dopamine is associated with pleasure and reward. For example when you complete a task or achieve some sort of result, you feel accomplished and your brain releases dopamine.

Ways to boost dopamine:

1. Set a goal/task and complete it

2. Celebrate the small wins

3. Cook your favorite meal

4. Practice an act of self care

5. Pass on a compliment

6. Eat protein rich foods such as fish, chicken, eggs, nuts, beans, and cheese

Oxytocin, also known as the love hormone. Oxytocin releases in your body when you're around or touch someone you have trust or a bond with. Giving your loved one a hug can fight stress and lower blood pressure.

Ways to boost oxytocin:

1. Snuggle your pet

2. Cuddling your baby or partner

3. Hug someone

4. Hold hands

5. Get a massage

Serotonin is a mood stabilizer. It regulates our mood, sleep, appetite, and digestion. Someone who has high serotonin is generally in a good mood and have good self esteem. If you're feeling upset, it's time to boost serotonin levels.

Here's how:

1. Meditate

2. Go out for a run/walk

3. Exercise

4. Listen to your favorite music

5. Dance

6. Spend some time in the sun

Endorphins is your body's natural pain reliever (decreases the intensity of pain). They also act to increase feelings of pleasure and relaxation.

Here are ways to boost endorphins:

1. Exercise. To experience the runner's high, try exercising for 30 mins.

2. Laugh! Watch something funny. Laughter can help you relieve stress, anxiety, and boost your overall mood.

3. Have sex

4. Essential oils

5. Dark chocolate

6. Wine

Let us know what you do to boost your happiness!