Hack Your Hormones: The Number One Sunday Times Bestseller

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So, share that funny video, dust off your joke book, or watch a comedy special with a friend or partner. Going for a run, swim or cycle – aerobic exercise (cardio) is best for stimulating serotonin because it more easily releases Tryptophan into the bloodstream than other less strenuous forms of exercise. Tryptophan is what your body then converts into Serotonin Saanijoki T, et al. (2022). Aerobic fitness is associated with cerebral μ-opioid receptor activation in healthy humans. Serotonin is a chemical messenger that’s believed to elevate your mood. Here are 7 serotonin-boosting foods, including turkey and cheese. Learn more… READ MORE The feeling of blissed-out high-energy and satisfaction after going for a jog? That would be Endorphins doing their thing, reducing your perception of pain and heightening feelings of pleasure.

Yorks DM, et al. (2017). Effects of group fitness classes on stress and quality of life of medical students.Even if you don’t own a dog, you might also experience an oxytocin boost when you see a dog you know and like. If you’re a dog lover, this might happen when you get a chance to pet any dog at all.

But what if instead of just waiting for hormones to be released when we do something that makes us feel good, we did things to intentionally trigger them; to motivate us to have healthier habits in our work, leisure time and relationships?Serotonin is most commonly associated with mood regulation, balanced sleeping patterns, improving happiness and decreasing anxiety.

yogurt, beans, eggs, meats with low-fat content, and almonds are just a few foods linked to dopamine release Listening to instrumental music, especially music that gives you chills, can increase dopamine production in your brain. There are several supplements that may help increase your happy hormone levels. Here are just a few to consider: Phase 1 - The Period Phase (around days 1-8) this starts on the 1st day of your period - and is the bleeding phase, when women may experience cramps, headaches, diarrhoea, nausea and fatigue. "Your productivity will be at its lowest - so go easy on yourself. This is a time for reflection and creativity. When you exercise, opt for low intensity such as walking, stretching, and gentle yoga to promote blood flow. The foods you need in this phase should be comfort foods and food that are high in iron, magnesium, zinc and omega 3. Also, keep hydrated and pamper yourself."

Bolbol-Haghighi N, et al. (2016). Effect of massage therapy on duration of labour: A randomized controlled trial. Field T, et al. (2009). Cortisol decreases and serotonin and dopamine increase following massage therapy.