Much of the time our moods are regulated by our hormones.
Have you ever just been in a bad mood for no reason? Like, everything in your life is going pretty well, but for some reason you can’t seem to muster up any joy about it? Hormones are various chemicals that your body releases. Some of the most well-known hormones have a primary function of helping to regulate mood.
Dopamine, Serotonin, Endorphins, and Oxytocin are your body’s ‘happiness hormones’, as they regulate pleasurable sensations, moods, pain relief, and even love. Your body produces these naturally, but there are some all natural ways to help boost your production of certain hormones. So if you have been feeling a bit down lately, try these automatic mood boosters:
Exercise– Anyone who has ever watched Legally Blond knows that exercise releases endorphins.
Go Outdoors– Studies show that sunlight helps to boost your levels of serotonin.
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Laugh– Laughing with a friend increases dopamine levels and releases endorphins.
Meditate– Meditation can help increase your dopamine.
Try pet therapy– Petting or spending time with an animal has been shown to increase production of oxytocin.
Get a massage– Stress relief tactics like a massage can increase all your happy hormones, especially oxytocin and endorphins.
Get enough sleep– Getting a good night of sleep can help balance all your hormone levels, especially dopamine.