Hormones are chemical messengers that affect and manage hundreds of bodily processes. Your current state of happiness is determined by the levels of four chemicals in your brain.
Here are a list of hacks to get more of each hormone:
The Reward Hormone
Dopamine is known as “The reward Hormone” It’s very important for focus and concentration (and sleep!). It’s released after your brain achieves a goal.
Ways to increase Dopamine:
- Get enough sleep
- Listen to music
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Exercise more
- Meditate
- Try something new
- Do something creative
- Achieve a goal
The Love Hormone
Oxytocin “the love hormone” it increases empathic feelings and also builds trust.
Ways to increase Oxytocin:
- Play with a pet
- Hug someone you love
- Do something nice for someone
- Spend time with friends
- Show affection
- Give someone a compliment
- Holding hands
The Happy Hormone
Serotonin can be increased by being outside in bright daylight but it is also important to remember that 90% of serotonin is formed in your gut. So if you have a healthy gut, you’ll have a lot of serotonin. And the feeling “hangry” - hungry and angry is actually a legit thing!
Ways to increase Serotonin:
- Walk in nature
- Enjoy the sunshine
- Try yoga and meditation
- Swimming
- Eat a healthy meal
The Pain Reliever
Endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers. And they also regulate the fight or flight instinct.
Ways to increase Endorphins:
- Laughter
- Essential Oils
- Dark Chocolate
- Running or walking
- Exercise
- Watch a movie
Just remember “DOSE” – Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin and Endorphins. The more you know about each of them, the more you know how to use them to your advantage!
