Did you know you can trick your brain into feeling happier? By knowing the basic functions of the four major brain chemicals – dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins – we can better understand how the decisions we make impacts our pursuit of happiness. Like many of our Feel Good Friday posts, this week’s theme is honing on ways to make you feel good, and it should come as no surprise that scientists have proven exactly how we manipulate four primary chemicals in order to design your own happiness.
Dopamine
The “Reward Chemical,” Dopamine causes that little happy feeling when someone compliments you on your work, or when you complete a small task. Dopamine is produced by:
- Completing a task
- Eating food
- Celebrating victories – big and small
- Practicing self care
Oxytocin
Oxytocin is often affectionately referred to as the “hugging drug” because it is released by the brain during physical contact with others. It’s also the feeling behind love, friendship, or deep trust. Activities that encourage oxytocin production include:
- Playing with a dog
- Hugging your family members
- Giving compliments
- Holding a baby
Serotonin
The “Mood Stabilizer,” Serotonin plays a role in many crucial systems in our body beyond just our well-being and happiness. It’s believed to affect digestion, bone growth, and even organ development.
- Meditation
- Sun exposure
- Swimming
Endorphins
The “Pain Killer,” Endorphins are essentially released in response to pain. They help us push our bodies beyond their comfort levels and persist when we might otherwise want to give up. You know that feeling that runners talk about getting on long runs? The “runner’s high?” That feeling comes from endorphins. (A lot of endorphins.)
- Laughter
- Drinking wine
- Exercise
- Eating chocolate
SEE: Ways to Reduce Stress During Covid-19
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