By foggy.brain 
Happiness Chemicals: Understanding How They Work and How to Increase Them. If you wonder why this is relevant to migraine sufferers I’d say it’s vital for us! Specially when things are really tough and our symptoms seem to be getting worse we need to take care of our feelings to be able to fight back.
Happiness is something that everyone strives for, yet it can be elusive at times. However, did you know that there are chemicals in your brain that contribute to your happiness? These chemicals are the “happiness chemicals” or “feel-good chemicals,” and understanding how they work can help you increase your happiness levels.
In this blog, we will discuss four of the main happiness chemicals, their body functions, and how to increase them for a happier life.
Dopamine: The Reward Chemical
Often referred to as the “reward chemical” because it is released when you experience pleasure or reward. Dopamine is involved in motivation, focus, and attention, and it plays a significant role in addiction. When you engage in an activity that feels good, such as eating your favorite food or receiving praise for a job well done, your brain releases dopamine. This release of dopamine reinforces the behavior, making you more likely to repeat it in the future.
How to Increase Dopamine:
- Set and achieve small goals to give yourself a sense of accomplishment
- Exercise regularly
- Listen to music you enjoy
- Meditate
- Practice gratitude
- Eat foods rich in tyrosine, such as eggs, almonds, and bananas
Benefits of Dopamine:
- Improved focus and motivation
- Increased feelings of pleasure and reward
- Reduced stress and anxiety
Serotonin: The Mood Stabilizer
Often referred to as the “mood stabilizer” because it regulates mood, social behavior, appetite, and digestion. Serotonin is released when you feel significant social connection or satisfaction, such as when you spend time with loved ones or accomplish a meaningful task. Low levels of serotonin lead to depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
How to Increase Serotonin:
- Spend time in the sun to boost vitamin D levels
- Exercise regularly
- Get enough sleep
- Practice mindfulness and meditation
- Eat foods rich in tryptophan, such as turkey, eggs, and nuts
- Consider taking supplements such as 5-HTP or St. John’s Wort
Benefits of Serotonin:
- Improved mood and overall well-being
- Reduced anxiety and depression
- Better sleep quality
Oxytocin: The Love Hormone
Often referred to as the “love hormone” because it is released when you experience love, trust, and social bonding. Oxytocin plays a significant role in social and sexual behavior, maternal-infant bonding, and childbirth. When you hug someone you love, have sex, or engage in other intimate activities, your brain releases oxytocin.
How to Increase Oxytocin:
- Spend time with loved ones and engage in activities that strengthen social bonds
- Hug, cuddle, or engage in other forms of physical touch with loved ones
- Practice kindness and generosity towards others
- Consider getting a massage or acupuncture
- Pet a dog or cat
Benefits of Oxytocin:
- Increased feelings of love and trust
- Improved social bonding and relationships
- Reduced stress and anxiety
Endorphins: The Pain Relievers
Often referred to as the “pain relievers” because they are released in response to stress or pain and act as natural painkillers. Endorphins also play a significant role in exercise and are responsible for the “runner’s high” that many people experience. Endorphins are also released during laughter, making it an excellent natural stress reliever.
How to Increase Endorphins:
- Exercise regularly
- Laugh and engage in activities that make you happy
- Eat Spicy Food, such as chili peppers,
- Listen to Music
Benefits of Endorphins
- Pain Relief
- Stress Relief, they can induce feelings of relaxation and euphoria.
- Improved Mood
- Increased Immunity
In conclusion happiness can elevate your spirit, help you see the good in every situation, boost your mood and most importantly increase your chances to fight back and have a more meaningful life!