In a world where happiness seems as rare as a hen’s teeth, it’s time to tap into your body’s secret stash of feel-good hormones. Get ready to embark on a journey to unlock the power of these magical neurotransmitters with Loka Pandya, the Chief Joy Officer and happiness maestro.
The regulation of our physical and mental well-being is greatly influenced by feel-good hormones. Even the things we eat, together with our ideas, actions, and activities, can affect these chemicals. Thus, you can foster several ways to improve your happiness by leveraging knowledge about how these hormones function and what triggers their production.
Dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin are the four happiness hormones. They’re like the Avengers of Happiness, here to save your mood from the clutches of negativity.
Let’s discuss the “happy hormone,” dopamine first, which induces feelings of well-being and pleasure. It controls the reward system of the brain, increasing when we experience something rewarding or enjoyable. From a surprise gift to a mouthwatering slice of pizza, dopamine knows how to throw a celebration in your face.
Next in line is serotonin, the ultimate mood lifter. It’s like a warm hug keeping you safe from sadness, depression and anxiety. You can boost your serotonin levels by getting your sweat on, soaking up some sun, and having a good night’s sleep.
Then we have endorphins, often associated with exercise; they are renowned for producing the temporary but deeply euphoric state known as “runner’s high.” They are also the superheroes of pain relief – your body’s very own natural painkillers.
Last but not least, we have oxytocin, the love guru. Oxytocin is released during intimate moments, like a hug, a kiss, or even a snuggle session with your loved one or a pet. It’s the hormone that reminds you that love is all around.
To boost these feel-good hormones naturally, Loka has gathered some activities that you can perform easily, upscaling your joy levels during the humdrum of mundane routine.
- First up is moving your body, as Loka advises, “Wear your trainers and hit the gym.” Neurotransmitters are released while we work out, due to which mood is enhanced and symptoms of depression are reduced.
- Loka says ‘Do what You like and forget about the world.’ It can be anything like playing a sport, dancing in the rain, blowing bubbles, anything. The key is to engage in enjoyable activities consistently.
It offers a welcome break from daily stressors. He further divulges, ‘Smile, if nothing else, just smile.’
- Exposing yourself to sunlight is another way to get those joyous hormones going. The best time is early morning or in the evening to increase your vitamin D levels. Vitamin D stimulates serotonin production, consequently reducing symptoms of depression.
- Eat dark chocolate; now, don’t go all monster, but in moderation, it can do wonders for your mood.
- Focus on incorporating foods rich in tryptophan into your diet. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that supports serotonin production and helps in processes that contribute to happiness. For that, drink milk and eat eggs, fish, dry fruits, dates, bananas, and cottage cheese.
- Playing with pets can significantly reduce stress levels. Interactions with affectionate animals, such as cats and dogs, trigger the release of serotonin and oxytocin, fostering feelings of happiness, love, and companionship.
- Hugging and kissing loved ones have profound effects on our well-being. These displays of affection release endorphins, dopamine, and oxytocin, creating feelings of enchantment, satisfaction, and connection.
Unlocking the power of these four happy hormones can significantly enhance your overall happiness and well-being. Believing in the power of small, actionable strategies, Loka ensures that we find the secret to our happiness in daily life.
With Loka Pandya, the Chief Joy Officer, you can learn many more ways to uncover your inner joy and contentment; for that, follow him on Instagram.
