What are the four happiness hormones and how to activate them

But first, what are hormones anyway?

Happiness hormones playan important role in how we feel and how we function. They work behind the scenes to boost our mood, motivation and well-being. And sometimes these hormones can also make us feel wonderfully euphoric.

Hormones are like our body's secret chemical messengers. They are produced by glands and sent through our blood to various organs and tissues. Once there, they send signals that determine how our bodies work and how we feel. They regulate everything from growth and metabolism to mood and sleep. Simply put, hormones keep our bodies running smoothly and allow us to feel good.

What are the four happiness hormones?

Dopamine (the reward hormone)

This is the reward hormone that makes you feel great when you accomplish something. Dopamine provides motivation and pleasure. For example, when you complete a task or achieve a goal, you feel a surge of satisfaction thanks to dopamine.

How do you stimulate dopamine?

• Getting enough sleep (How much sleep do you need as an adult?)
• Developing yourself
• Meditating

Did you know that research has confirmed that many of the benefits of meditation are related to the increased production of dopamine while meditating?

Read more: Benefits of meditation: why start meditating?

Endorphins (the pain reliever)

This natural painkiller creates a euphoric feeling, especially after physical exertion. Think of the "runner's high" you may experience after a good sports session, where endorphins make you feel better and more energetic.

How do you stimulate endorphins?

• Practicing Yoga
• Flowing or dancing
• Laughing

Oxytocin (the cuddle hormone)

Known as the cuddle hormone, oxytocin helps you feel connection and love with others. For example, a hug or meaningful conversation with a friend can stimulate oxytocin production. This happiness hormone makes you feel loved and connected.

How do you stimulate oxytocin?

• Cuddling
• Getting a massage
• Talking with loved ones

Serotonin (the mood stabilizer)

The happiness hormone serotonin makes you feel calm and satisfied. It also improves your mood and sleep. A walk in the sun or doing a breathing exercise can naturally increase the production of the chemical serotonin

How do you stimulate serotonin?

• Practicing breathwork
• Positive thinking
• Healthy eating

Serotonin breathing for more happiness

Serotonin largely determines how happy you feel. And you can easily increase your serotonin levels with this simple breathing exercise.