Actually, we all want only one thing in life – to be happy. The messenger substance dopamine in the body is responsible for the feeling of happiness. You can use certain home remedies to increase your dopamine levels naturally. We explain which 3 these are.
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Where does happiness come from?
Dopamine is a messenger substance (neurotransmitter) that is responsible for the communication between nerve cells. Sensations and emotions are transmitted along this path. Under certain circumstances, dopamine can activate the reward center in the brain and trigger positive feelings. For this reason, like the messenger substance serotonin, it is referred to as the happiness hormone. Dopamine is released during certain activities, such as eating chocolate or having an orgasm. And we can also have a positive influence on dopamine levels with our lifestyle. But what exactly can you do to increase dopamine levels naturally?
These 3 home remedies will increase your dopamine levels
1. Sport
Even if it is sometimes difficult to pull yourself together to exercise , the feeling of relaxation, contentment and happiness after a workout is priceless. Because exercise and sport not only have a positive effect on our cardiovascular system, they can also be proven to lift our spirits and thus prevent mental illnesses. Studies have found that endurance exercise can increase levels of dopamine in the body. However, it doesn’t always have to be a cardio session or a strength workout, gentle exercise and relaxation exercises can also do a lot of good for our body and even increase dopamine levels. Try yoga or meditation.
2. Sunlight
The sun is good for us! When it’s bright and sunny outside, we’re bursting with motivation and drive. And everyone knows that pleasant feeling when you sit outside in the sun. And that’s no coincidence: Sunlight not only produces vitamin D, it’s also a real dopamine booster. Studies have shown that those who get a lot of sunlight have a higher density of dopamine receptors in the reward regions of the brain. So try to spend as much time outside in the fresh air as possible, especially when the sun is shining. However, if you are exposed to the direct sun, you should think about sun protection.
3. Sleep
A restful sleep is important for health – and this applies not only to physical health, but also to mental health. When we get up in the morning, our body releases dopamine. As soon as we go to sleep, dopamine levels shut down. When this day-night rhythm is disrupted by a lack of sleep, it can have a negative impact on our mood. Within a studyIt has been found that a lack of sleep is associated with a lower amount of dopamine receptors in the brain. Not only can a lack of dopamine lower mood, it can also cause trouble concentrating. Make sure you sleep at least 7-9 hours, go to bed at the same time, and avoid noise and lights in the bedroom to improve your sleep quality.
Also interesting: The 5 biggest sleep killers and what you can do about them >>
