Experts revealed that a series of chemical reactions in your body is the main reason you feel happy or elated. These chemical reactions involve your feel-good or happy hormones, such as serotonin, oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphins. For this reason, you can boost your happy hormones when you’re feeling sad or depressed. The good news is that you can achieve it easily. To give you a better view, here are ways to naturally boost your feel-good hormones.
Massage
A massage can offer numerous health benefits. Aside from relaxing your body and mind, it can also stimulate oxytocin production. Plus, it can also boost your endorphin levels. For this reason, experts recommend visiting your favorite spa to get a relaxing massage when you’re stressed out. Afterward, you will feel refreshed and satisfied.
Exercise
One of the best ways to naturally boost your feel-good hormones is to exercise. You’ve probably heard of the euphoric feeling many runners experience after a run. The reason is that any form of exercise that raises your heart rate can trigger the release of endorphins, resulting in a positive feeling.
Singing and Listening to Music
Some people sing or listen to a song when they feel sad, and they will feel better afterward. The reason is that both activities can stimulate the release of oxytocin, which can alleviate stress, anxiety, and pain. Aside from that, upbeat songs can also make you feel energized and happy.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is another popular remedy to boost your mood. Remember, your nose or olfactory system can trigger your brain to release dopamine serotonin when it smells mood-lifting essential oils like lemon, lavender, and bergamot. As a result, you will feel relaxed and satisfied. For this reason, many health experts recommend aromatherapy to those experiencing anxiety, depression, constant stress, or other mood disorders.
Consume Fermented Foods
Finally, the last on this list of ways to boost your feel-good hormones is to add fermented foods to your diet. Keep in mind that your digestive health plays a role in your mood. The reason is that serotonin production can also take place in your gut. As such, it is vital to strengthen your gut’s microbiome by eating foods with living microorganisms. Some of the highly recommended fermented foods you can eat are kimchi, sauerkraut, tempeh, natto, and pickled vegetables.
The Bottom Line
Many people feel sad, especially during winter. However, you can combat this negative feeling by boosting your feel-good hormones. As presented, there are numerous ways to increase your happy hormones. From there, you will feel better, more relaxed, and happier.
