Since we’re rational beings and fully aware of ourselves, we fully control our thoughts while being cognizant of our emotions. Like every part of our body, our emotions are also controlled by our mood, which is controlled by much of our central nervous system. Theoretically, being “happy” or “sad” is just a state of mind, and while they can be controlled through certain changes in our biochemistry through different chemical changes.
Still, our mood is usually determined by our hormones and will usually influence how we perceive the world. But is it possible to “hack” happiness into our system? Well, most medical practitioners would say that it’s possible with medication. However, the problem with most of these medications is that they can easily cause substance dependence (you can’t get addicted to antidepressants, but you can still get dependent) if it’s not regulated. Thus, it’s only appropriate that we look for natural ways.
But other than medication, changes in lifestyle through exercise and healthy living are known for being tried and tested ways of releasing happy hormones in the body. But what are some natural ways of promoting the production of happy hormones and filling yourself with positivity and contentment?
We’ll be discussing in detail how our body usually manages happy hormones and natural key ways of producing them.
Types of Happy Hormone
Contrary to what most people think, there’s more than one type of “happy” hormone, and they’re called mood-regulators since they have a major influence on an individual’s mood. It’s important to note that several hormones will need to work together to get you towards a good mood while also reducing stress.
Usually, a good balance of hormones is what will lead to a more stable mood. Hormonal imbalance is what will result in mood swings. Think of mood swings like a pendulum; if you’re going to swing one part too far, it will give feedback with the same amount of energy and force.
So what are some happy hormones that you’ll need to be aware of?
- Oxytocin — The feeling of love, trust, and affection and normally associated with the love hormone or oxytocin. This hormone is often produced with interaction with people who are close and promote parent-child connection, especially when raising your toddler or baby.
- Dopamine — This is normally known as the good feel-good hormone and is usually produced through various activities such as exercising and any physical activity.
- Endorphin — There are several types of pain relievers, and endorphin is known for being one of the body’s natural ways of relieving pain. Together with other substances, this can help ease the pain for a majority of injuries.
- Serotonin — This hormone is known for affecting much of your mood. Not only is serotonin known for helping with depression, but it’s also known for regulating sleep. In most cases, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (or SSRI) are anti-depressive medication used to treat anxiety and depression among individuals.
Now that we know what each of these hormones can do, what are some natural activities and ways to increase these happy hormones?
Do a Major Project
Major projects are a great way of feeling good and contented about yourself, especially when you’re working towards a long-term goal and when you’ve finished it. Not only does this help build confidence, but you’re essentially learning a skill that you can use later in your life.
Doing volunteer work, teaching children, creating furniture, and writing down your own book are just some major projects that you can do. There are a near-endless amount of activities that you can do that can give you a good rush of dopamine.
Most writers and volunteer workers will usually share their ideas by writing a book. One of the best ways of getting a good feeling of accomplishment is finishing a book and effectively publishing it. If you’re writing a book for children, this can help entertain them while also sharing your ideas with the youth. If you’re looking at self-publishing a book for individuals, you might want to consider going to a publisher that can help self-publishing children’s picture books.
Food That Helps Release Hormones
Interestingly, there are a variety of food that we can eat daily that can help improve our mood, such as:
- Chocolate
- Vitamin B-rich food
- Legumes and seeds
- Fruits and veggies
Do a Pleasurable Hobby
There are tons of hobbies that you can do that can help release hormones. Whether it’s dancing by yourself, acting with friends, or running/cycling and covering a good amount of distance, there are so many things that can keep you occupied for a long time.
Exercise is known for releasing a good amount of dopamine in the body, especially right after working out. However, you must not over-exert your muscles or do activities that might be too dangerous.
There are several ways of feeling good about yourself without having to take any medications. At the end of the day, you have to keep yourself busy, surround yourself with friends, and do activities you love. Ultimately, happiness and sadness is a state of mind, and remaining positive can get you through the day!
