We have all heard of hormones, and probably blamed them for bad moods or irritability at some point. But what exactly are they?
Hormones are our body's chemical messengers. They travel in our bloodstream to our tissues or organs and affect many different processes. Certain hormones are known to help promote positive feelings, including happiness and pleasure. There are ways to stimulate different hormones and boost our happiness and pleasure.
SEROTONIN
Regulates mood, good or bad. It improves sleep, reduces anxiety and increases happiness.
Get some sunshine
Practice meditation/mindfulness
Go outside for a walk
Do some cardio
DOPAMINE
Commonly considered the ‘happiness chemical’, it influences your mood and feelings of reward and motivation as it drives the reward system of the brain.
Listen to upbeat music
Have a sweet treat
Have a good night's sleep
Complete a task - big or small
ENDORPHINS
Our natural painkiller that reduces stress and increases pleasure. These are your body's natural pain reliever, which your body produces in response to stress or discomfort.
Burn essential oils (especially lavender)
Have a little bit of dark chocolate
Do some exercise
Watch something funny
OXYTOCIN
This is released when we feel connected to people – sometimes referred to as the ‘bonding hormone’.
Pet your cat/dog
Give someone a hug
Give/get a massage
Cook for a loved one
Get in touch to find out more about hypnotherapy and how it can help you.
Malcolm Struthers Hypnotherapy - Online and in-person in Dumfries & Galloway