The Science Behind Your Happiness and How to Achieve it!
Have you ever noticed how certain activities like walking or watching tv can make you feel good or happy? That’s because your happy hormones are working! Hormones play a vital role in regulating various bodily functions, acting as messengers as they travel through the bloodstream. Among their crucial functions is the regulation of mood, with certain hormones being particularly associated with promoting positive feelings such as happiness and pleasure. These hormones are well known as ‘happy chemicals’ or ‘happy hormones’ and there are 4 of them including:
Dopamine:
Dopamine drives motivation, learning, and pleasure, It generates a sense of accomplishment similar to the satisfaction experienced when you successfully completing a task or fulfilling a desire.
Serotonin:
When you experience happiness and everything feels harmonious, you're experiencing the influence of serotonin. This hormone not only enhances mood but also regulates numerous other bodily functions.
Oxytocin:
Oxytocin, dubbed the "love hormone," fosters trust, intimacy, and bonding in relationships. It promotes feelings of safety and connection, strengthening social ties and reducing stress.
Endorphins:
Acting as the body's natural pain relievers, endorphins are produced in response to stress or discomfort. Their levels may rise during activities that induce pleasure or reward.
Here’s how you can hack your happiness chemicals:
Dopamine:
- Check something off your to-do list
- Doing self-care activities
- Getting enough sleep
- Eating good food
Serotonin:
- Mediating
- Walking outside
- Sun exposure
- Cold showers
Oxytocin:
- Give compliments
- Hugging your loved ones
- Play with animals
- Spend time with friends
Endorphins:
- Eat dark chocolate
- Exercise
- Watch a funny movie
- Listening to your favorite music
Prioritizing happiness isn't just a luxury, it's a fundamental aspect of self-care that can profoundly impact your overall well-being. By consciously seeking out activities, relationships, and experiences that bring joy and fulfilment, you're investing in your mental, emotional, and even physical health.
March 20th is International Day of Happiness, see how many of the above activities you can do for yourself on this day and everyday!