Let me introduce you to a new friend, SEROTONIN.
Serotonin or shall we call it “Mr. Happy”, is believed to be a resident in our tummy and brain that acts as a messenger that helps send out messages throughout our body. One of its major day to day tasks is to make sure our brain tells our body to be happy, to have smooth digestion, sleep soundly or basically to have a great mood.
Like in any movie, Mr. Happy has 2 villains, and these are several physiological and psychological symptoms such as Anxiety, Depression, sadness, Low self-esteem, panic attacks, post traumatic stress disorder and insomnia.
Now let us forget these villains and stir in another direction. Since this is “our” body, we are the captain of this ship. We can definitely make sure to have enough levels of serotonin in our system.
Look at this 5 tips that help boost serotonin naturally:
1. Make sure to eat the right kind of FOOD Unfortunately, we can’t directly get serotonin from food BUT (a big “BUT”) Mr Happy has a best friend, his name is “Tryptophan” an amino acid that produces Serotonin. Food that are good sources of Tryptophan are: Salmon, lean poultry, eggs, spinach, seeds & nuts, Soy products and make sure to add carbohydrates in your meal.
2. INSIDE rather than outside Unless needed, stay inside your home. BUT, make sure you have proper ventilation. If you really need to go out, use an umbrella, cap or sunglasses.
3. “I’m walking on SUNSHINE” Research says that serotonin levels are lower during cold days and higher during summer. Let us make sure we get enough Vitamin D everyday. BUT make sure to put sunscreen and mind the time of the day.
4. Here’s something a lot of people love, MASSAGE. Not only does it increase your serotonin level, you would also expect Dopamine to join in. (Dopamine is another messenger that makes us feel good).
5. Lastly, who can better dictate what our body would react and feel but us. Let’s INDUCT good emotions. Think of something or someone that makes you feel good. Re-visit a happy memory a few years or days back. Be with a family or a good friend. Always stay in your happy place wherever that may be.
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