What are hormones ?
Lets know about happy hormones. Hormones are organic chemical substances which regulate our physiological activities. They are released by a cell, or organ or a gland or any body part of plants and animals. They function to maintain homeostasis.
What are emotions and how are they related to hormones?
All our feelings occur because of chemical reactions taking place inside our body. These reactions may give us negative emotions as well as positive emotions. Sadness, anger are examples of negative emotions whereas happiness, love are examples of positive emotions.
What role do hormones play?
The chemical discharged from one part affects different other parts. Hormones are usually released in subtle quantities. Subtle quantity of hormones carry out our body functions. The target organs or tissues are adapted to the minute quantities of the hormones. Hormones acts as chemical messengers. They function to transport signal from one cell to the other.
sympathetic nervous component of ANS uses the neurotransmitters adrenaline and noradrenaline to prepare the body for “fight or flight”. The parasympathetic nervous component of ANS uses acetylcholine to allow the body to rest and digest, slowing the heart and breathing.
Happiness has a complex meaning and composed of several factors. Endocrine glands which release hormones control growth ad metabolism, thus playing significant role in neurological functions. Most of the negative emotional condition occur due to an imbalance in activity of the nervous system.Thus, happy hormones can be defined as those hormones that recorrect this imbalance in neurological activity.
Serotonin, endorphin, dopamine and oxytocin are based on their positive neurological restorative activity. Phenylethylamine and ghrelin are also happy hormones. Phenylethylamine, when secretd in Adequate levels of can enhance the mood of love and thus, happiness. Cocoa, found in chocolates is an excellent source of phenylethylamine. Though Ghrelin has been a known hunger stimulating hormone, it also acts as a stress buster. An active life style, a healthy diet are the essential precursors to hack happy hormones. The hormonal changes that occur with secretion of these happy hormones could help people cope with depression and certain stress-related disorders.
Happy hormones
Happiness arises due to complex interplay of chemicals in the brain.
Although happiness is influenced by external factors, internal factors are the basis of feeling happy.
These are produced in the body in times of euphoria. Similarly, their level reduces during depression.
Examples – Endorphins, Serotonin, Dopamine and Oxytocin.
Endorphine- The pain killer
Serotonin- The mood stabilizer
Oxytocin- The love hormone
Dopamine- The reward hormone
Endorphins
Endorphins are our body’s natural painkillers. In ancestral ages, endorphins enabled stone-age man to escape predators and thus avoid and run through pain. These have similar Biological properties as opiates. Endorphins are attributed to have a strong analgesic effect, several times higher than morphine. The word “endorphins” is actually a combination of the words “endogenous” and “morphine”
Ways to hack endorphine
- Exercise to cope with chronic pain.
2. Listen music.
3. Eating spicy food
4. Laughing exercise
5. Watching Comedy movies
6. Consuming Dark chocolate
7. Essential oils- Usage of essential oils increases calmness and peace.
SEROTONIN
Functions-
regulates mood
prevents depression,
maintains healthy appetite,
sleep regulator
increases happiness and social involvement.
mediators of inflammation and allergies.
Ways to increase your serotonin levels:
1. Spend time in the sun – Increased vitamin D triggers serotonin
2. Think happy thoughts- Happy memories trigger serotonin
3. Consume foods like milk and corn
4. low-intensity workout and aerobic exercise.
5. Lose weight.
6. Meditate
7. Go for a run
8. Walk in nature
9. Swimming
10. Cycling
Dopamine
Dopamine is released when you strive towards a goal. It is a neurotransmitter involved in many pathways in the brain,.
It functions to regulate movement, sleep, learning, mood, memory, and attention. Dopamine is the motivator hormone which motivates you to earn the satisfaction of reaching your goal. It increases alertness and concentration.
Ways to increase your dopamine levels:
1. Set goals, since they give you a drive to achieve them
2. Set exercise goals
3. Eat protein rich foods
4. Complete a task
5. Do self care activities
6. Celebrate little achievements.
Oxytocin
It is also a neurotransmitter which function to regulates social interaction and sexual reproduction. Oxycotin regulates maternal-infant bonding and milk release.
The hormone functions to increase bonding and overall satisfaction with life. It improves a sense of personal connection to their family and surroundings. Any type of stress that our body experiences may reduce oxytocin levels. This stress could be either emotional, work related, physical, etc. Thus it is important to manage stress levels. This can impact all areas of life.
What are the best ways to cope with stress?
Firstly its important to identify unhealthy coping mechanisms which may include consumption of alocohol, excessive smoking, over sleeping, etc. The best ways to cope with stress are engaging in activites you like. It could be exercise, reading a book, spending time with your pet, listening to songs, dancing, etc
Its important that ones attitude is towards the right direction. Thinking and saying positive thoughts are the best way. Set yourself realistic goals. Work step by step.
Ways to increase your oxytocin levels:
1.Get a massage, since it relaxes your muscles and the prolonged physical contact triggers the release of oxytocin.
2. Show your friends and family that you love them .
3.Hug your parents
4. Play with a baby
5. Play with a dog or pet
6.Holding hands
7. Giving compliments
8.Being kind
9. Spending time with people you love
Conclusion
Happiness hormones are thus important to maintain good welfare, reduce stress, and stabilise mood. The release of these hormones occur with respect to positive behavioural enrichment. the secretion of theses hormones improves the comfort and stress tolerance.
FACT
Did you know?
90% of all Serotonin is found in your GI.
Also read- https://vcurehealthcare.com/how-to-heal-and-cure-thyroid-problems-naturally/