Happiness Chemicals
There are four main hormones in our brain that are responsible for creating happiness and feel-good sensations: endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. These chemicals help to establish feelings of well-being and they can be influenced by stress levels, self-care, and lifestyle choices. The signal in the neuron that travels through the axon and to the receptor sites is accepted or rejected by a second neuron. After this, reuptake occurs and the end result is emotions such as joy, laughter, happiness, sadness, or anger.
Dopamine is a rewarding chemical, that is released when we do things such as complete a task, partake in self-care activities, eat food, or celebrate small wins. It is produced by the hypothalamus which is where feelings of pleasure occur. Dopamine has also been shown to help with movement and motivation. Motivation can be seen by seeking out new or old things you enjoy and do well.
Oxytocin, the love hormone, is released when hugging a loved one, playing with a dog or baby, and when you’re holding hands with someone you care for. Research has shown that this hormone is linked to life satisfaction levels and is therefore very important. It is correlated with loving touch and close relationships, additionally it plays a larger role in women’s physiology and happiness than men’s. Because oxytocin also stimulates serotonin and dopamine it helps to lower levels of anxiety.
Serotonin is the mood stabilizer hormone that is produced during sun exposure, meditating, running, and being in nature. It has also been shown to decrease feelings of worry while being associated with learning and memory. Serotonin helps to regulate sleep, appetite and mood in addition to creating feelings of importance. There are things we can do each day to trigger the release of this hormone such as going on a walk, getting quality sleep, and participating in self-care activities.
Endorphins are known as the pain killer hormone and are released when laughing, exercising, eating dark chocolate, and while using essential oils. This hormone is produced by the central nervous system to help us cope with any physical pain we feel. Endorphins are released in response to stress as well, but also other activities such as sex, exercise, and eating. Many athletes refer to a ‘endorphin high’ when they force their body to a point of discomfort.
Source: Parkinson’s NSW & Integris Health