Hormones serve as messengers for our bodies, controlling everything from physical function to emotional well-being. What’s cool about many of these hormones? They are influenced greatly by our thoughts, activities, and even the foods we eat.
Understanding these chemicals and how they function can assist you in developing specific strategies for feeling better. According to Henry Ford Health. the four key happiness-boosting hormones are as follows:
Dopamine: Also known as the “happy hormone,” dopamine promotes feelings of well-being. It is a primary driver of the brain’s reward system and increases when we enjoy something pleasurable. Being praised on the job? You’ll feel a rush of dopamine. Are you in love? Your levels of dopamine will skyrocket. “Dopamine produces that high we get from food, sex, shopping, pretty much any enjoyable activity,” Dr. Fatima says.
Serotonin: Known as the “feel-good hormone,” serotonin plays an important role in preventing anxiety and depression. In fact, the primary class of drugs used to treat these conditions, known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), raises serotonin levels in the brain. Exercise, spending time outside, and getting a good night’s sleep can all help to increase serotonin levels.
Endorphins: Endorphins are most commonly associated with exercise and are associated with “runner’s high.” “Cardiovascular exercise is one of the most effective ways to increase endorphins,” says Dr. Fatima. These potent hormones act as natural pain relievers, reducing discomfort while increasing pleasure. They are a major reason why athletes can push through pain during a difficult race or big game.
Oxytocin: Oxytocin, best known for its role in bonding and attachment, floods a woman’s system during childbirth and nursing. But having a baby isn’t the only way to get an oxytocin rush. This “love hormone” is also stimulated by any type of intimate touch, such as holding hands, cuddling, kissing, massage, and sex.
While there is no sure way to get your feel-good hormones flowing, there are activities you can incorporate into your daily routine to naturally increase all four happiness hormones.
- Cuddling with a loved one
- Exercising
- Experimenting with aromatherapy
- Getting a massage
- Having sex
- Listening to feel-good music
- Meditating
- Spending time outdoors
- Taking a nap
- Watching a comedy
It doesn’t matter what activities you choose as long as you enjoy them. “There is no right or wrong way to increase any of these feel-good hormones,” says Dr. Farvah Fatima a family medicine specialist at Henry Ford Health. Instead, the key is to tune into your body and notice how various activities make you feel, both in the moment and for hours afterwards.
Also see: How decluttering your space could make you healthier and happier
