There are a number of “happiness chemicals” responsible for our good moods, including serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, endorphins and more. We’ve heard that oxytocin is released after sex and endorphins from working out, but there are also a number of other surprising ways to get your brain to release these happiness chemicals. If you’re someone who is trying to get high on life the natural way, it’s useful to know what types of habits and activities can give you that rush of euphoria.
“Happiness chemicals’ are the substances in our brains called neurotransmitters that influence things like mood, motivation, intimacy, productivity, feelings of wellbeing, trust, and connection with others,” says psychologist Dr. Joseph Cilonaover email. “These neurotransmitters have a huge impact on our overall feelings of wellbeing, pleasure, and mood. Low levels of these important substances in our brains are associated with things like low mood and depression, pain, loneliness, stress, anxiety, and difficulty feeling motivated.”
Working to up these neurotransmitters naturally can help you feel happier in the moment and even help fight against existing anxiety and depression. If you’re looking for some easy mood boosters, consider these 11 surprising ways to get your brain to release more happiness chemicals.
1Eat Some Dark Chocolate
“Consuming some dark chocolate has been found to increase serotonin levels, which have a direct effect on things like feeling calm and comfortable,” says Cilona. “Consuming chocolate has also been found to increase dopamine levels, bolster motivation, and to have a mild anti-depressant effect.” Stick with dark chocolate at least 70 percent cocoa or higher, eat it regularly (about 2-3 times a week), and consume around 1.5 to 2 ounces for best results.
2Make Some Music
Even if you’re not a natural Beethoven, making music, whether it just be singing, tapping out drum sounds on your desk, or learning some piano, can help encourage a positive mood and even diminish pain. This is because engaging in music helps release endorphins, according to research from the University of Oxford.
3Create A Checklist
Dopamine is linked to positive behavior reinforcement, and it’s responsible for that satisfied feeling when you complete something, according to Psychology Today. By keeping a small, attainable to-do list, you’ll release a rush of dopamine each time you check something off. Added bonus: This will motivate you to keep getting more stuff done.
4Look At Old Photos
“Looking at old photos that remind you of happy events in your life, or times when you felt confident, successful, or achieved something significant, can create an immediate increase in serotonin levels,” says Cilona. But be careful not to look at photos that have less than fond memories, as viewing those could have the opposite effect.