How to increase the hormones of happiness

The hormones of happiness (or endorphins) can be increased naturally and more easily than you think. We propose some simple tips to be happier every day.

It may seem that happiness is simply an emotional state, but the truth is that happiness also arises from our body and, more precisely, from our hormones. Endorphins are, then, those famous “hormones of happiness” that we will talk about and – even better – we will teach you how to increase them.

Hormones, as you know, are substances that our body produces that are responsible for regulating all kinds of functions in our body, from growth or weight, to lactation or labor.  Although it may seem incredible, there are hormones in our body that influence our mood, and if we can activate them we can increase our feeling of happiness.

What are endorphins?

We have already said that endorphins are hormones that the body secretes and that give us a feeling of happiness, but let’s see more about it. The production of endorphins occurs in the brain from two glands: the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland.

According to specialists, these substances that our body naturally produces are comparable to the pleasurable effects that occur with drugs derived from opium, but without the destructive consequences of addiction.

Did you know that endorphins and love are closely related? There are those who may think that it is a first-rate kitsch, but falling in love generates endorphins and therefore this feeling of happiness, pleasure and euphoria that is experienced especially at the beginning of a relationship.

This is stated by different scientists who have verified through various studies the increase in the production of endorphins during falling in love.

How to increase the hormones of happiness:

Fall in love

The reality is that although it is wonderful to be so happily in love, this is not something that one can program to do with just a little will… unfortunately; love can be something more complicated. But the good news is that there are many other ways to increase the happiness hormones in our brains, and many of them you can start today.

Relive happy memories

Scientific studies have shown that endorphins not only increase when we experience a happy situation, but also when we remember it. In this simple way we can improve our feeling of happiness, thanks to those happy moments that comfort us to remember again. Also imagining happy things in the future will put your happiness hormones into action.

Do physical exercise

Physical exercise is a great motivator for the production of endorphins. Among them, running, swimming, skating and cycling are recommended. But you can also choose other types of sports that are to your liking or, for example, aerobic classes, also practice some type of dance such as hip hop, salsa, or something that helps your body get moving.

You can also opt for less demanding physical activities such as practicing yoga or taking walks in a relaxing environment, the beach, a park or the countryside can be excellent options.

When it comes to physical exercise, we cannot fail to mention another of the most endorphin-producing activities: sex. Pleasurable sexual intercourse, or even kisses and sensual caresses, can increase our feeling of happiness, and – as an extra bonus – reduce stress and help prevent insomnia.

Laugh and smile

Another trick to increase endorphins is to laugh. Laughter not only has the effect of increasing its production but also -as it works through laughter therapy- it can improve recovery from illnesses or alleviate others. Hang out with friends who make you laugh, watch your favorite sitcom one more time, or whatever works for you, but laugh. Your health will undoubtedly thank you.

Eat chocolate

Surely you already know that chocolate becomes one of the best foods to feel good and happier. As some scientific studies have shown, this seems to be because this delicious food stimulates the production of endorphins in our body.

The reason must be found in the presence of a stimulant, known by the name of phenyl ethylamine, which has the same effect on the body as falling in love. While its caffeine and the bromine composition helps improve mood and increase serotonin levels in our brain.

The key? Eat a piece of chocolate every day; preferably dark (that is, it has at least 65 or 70 percent cocoa).