Happiness is a state of mind, and it can be achieved when you feel happy – which is due to the effects of serotonin – a hormone that boosts your mood and many other functions. According to experts, serotonin promotes quality sleep by regulating circadian rhythms, balances your appetite, helps with learning and memory, and promotes positive emotions and social behavior.

On the other hand, low levels of serotonin are associated with depression, stress and anxiety.

Ways to Increase Serotonin

Mental health experts say that it is possible to increase serotonin levels without taking medication. Some of these remedies are as follows:

Exercise

According to experts, exercise and workouts help trigger the release of tryptophan in your blood. It also reduces the number of amino acids – which is a perfect environment for more tryptophan to reach your brain. And so, participate in full-body workouts like Zumba and aerobics, roller skates or dancing to increase your heart rate which helps release serotonin.

Additionally, cycling or lifting weights helps increase serotonin in your body, which typically gives people the feeling of euphoria known as “runner’s high” after an intense workout.

bright lights

According to studies, winter time, which is mostly gloomy and dark, lowers your serotonin levels compared to the summer season. The effect of serotonin on mood supports the occurrence of seasonal affective disorder and other mental health problems.

Therefore, it is important to spend time in the sun. To maximize these potential benefits, aim to:

• spend at least 10 minutes outside every day
• exercise outside if possible
• Apply sunscreen if you’re outside for more than 15 minutes.

try massage therapy

Getting a massage increases your levels of happiness hormones like serotonin and dopamine. It also reduces stress and calms your body. Studies show that massage therapy also reduces anxiety, insomnia, and depression.

However, always visit a licensed practitioner who knows the proper way to help increase blood circulation in your body.

Socialize

Socialising and meeting with your family and friends is extremely important for overall health and well-being. According to experts, socialising increases happiness hormones and reduces stress levels significantly.

Laugh

Laughter is considered the best cure for all mental health problems. According to experts, laughter increases serotonin levels in the brain, which increases happiness, relaxation and satisfaction. Laughing with friends and family also increases dopamine levels, which can further improve emotional health and mental health.

help others

You might have noticed that helping others always feels good. It boosts your happy hormones and confidence as it gives you a sense of purpose and accomplishment. According to experts, being kind helps increase serotonin as well as oxytocin and dopamine.

Manage your emotions

Chronic stress is one of the main reasons why people are always sad and depressed. Experts say that extremely low serotonin levels are the reason behind this and hence, it is important to find ways and means to reduce your stress levels. Here are some ways to do this:

• practicing yoga
• journaling
• Seeking therapy
• practice deep breathing exercises
• Listening to music
• Attention

Get the latest news on Times Now with breaking news and top headlines on mental health, wellness and more from around the world.