Serotonin, endorphin, dopamine and oxytocin are the so-called ‘happiness hormones’. Each one works in a different way, both in men and women and depending on age, according to psychiatrist Marcela Rizo from the Clinic, Quirónsalud group.
For the specialist, the activation of these hormones generates well-being in the person, improves productivity and performance in daily activities and increases the feeling of happiness, “each one is activated or awakens differently, so performing different actions will allow activate them and thus generate well-being”, he points out.
How are they activated?
endorphins: They are activated mainly by sensations of pain and pleasure. Being related to it, you can exercise, dance, eat sweets or spicy foods to stimulate its activation.
serotonin: is a neurotransmitter related to mood and emotions. It is related to well-being and when there is a deficit of it, we talk about depression and anxiety. Foods such as rice, pasta and eggs can help to activate it, as well as remembering happy moments that have been lived, frequent sunbathing in the early hours of the morning, walking and jogging.
dopamine: is the hormone of reward and satisfaction. It is stimulated through exercise, listening to music and through sex, in addition to Yoga and meditation. It is also stimulated when the proposed objectives or goals are achieved.
oxytocin: It is the hormone of love, also associated with the processes of childbirth or lactation. By stimulating it, it gives the feeling of security, to improve social interactions and self-esteem, to strengthen self-confidence. It is activated by physical contact, by laughing or crying, as well as by touching our pet and even by having actions of generosity. This hormone favors people’s mental health.
What are they stimulated for?
- Improve your social interaction
- you have a better mood
- you have a good attitude
- for your mental health
So you can also activate them
- Gatherings with friends or family help you stimulate these hormones.
- Laugh, dance and sing
- Eat food with some spice, likewise ripe fruits, chicken, fish, eggs or cheese.