From falling in love to the post workout high, hormones such as Serotonin and Dopamine are responsible for many of our ‘feel good’ emotions. Conversely, hormones such as Cortisol and Adrenaline can result in feelings of stress and anxiety. Here are a few simple tricks to get happy fast and support hormonal balance.
1. Engage in Stress-Reduction Behaviors
Engaging in activities such as meditation, yoga, massage, and listening to soothing music can help normalize your levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
2. SMILE!
“The Act of Smiling activates neurotransmitters in your brain such as Dopamine, Endorphins, and Serotonin. These are our feel good hormones and enhance our well being and positivity!” - Dr. Gabrielle Francis
3. Get Outside
Make it a priority to spend at least 20 minutes outside each day. Fresh air and sunshine can increase the brain’s release of a hormone called serotonin. Serotonin is associated with boosting mood and helping a person feel calm and focused.
4. Hug Someone You Love
Hug someone you care about for 20 seconds. When we do this we release oxytocin, a hormone that relaxes us and lowers anxiety. It’s often called the “cuddle hormone,” and when it’s released during these 20-second hugs it can effectively lower blood pressure and reduce the stress hormone norepinephrine.
5. Consume More Protein
Consuming adequate protein, such as whole eggs, almonds, and chicken breast, triggers the production of hormones that suppress appetite and help you feel full. Aim for a minimum of 20–30 grams of protein per meal.
6. Engage In Regular Exercise
Physical activity can modify hormone levels in a way that reduces the risk of disease and protects muscle mass during the aging process. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins and the ‘feel good’ hormone, dopamine, in your brain. Not only is your brain dumping out feel-good chemicals, but exercise also helps your brain get rid of chemicals that make you feel stressed and anxious.