Get Your Feel-Good "D.O.S.E." of Neurotransmitters: Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, and Endorphins
February is the perfect time to focus on your mental and emotional well-being. One of the ways to do so is by boosting the "D.O.S.E." neurotransmitters: dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating mood, emotions, and behaviour.
Here are some simple tips to help you boost each neurotransmitter:
Dopamine: for the drive to do.
- Try new things and set achievable goals
- Engage in hobbies or activities that bring pleasure
- Eat a balanced diet with protein, complex carbs and healthy fats.
Oxytocin: for connection
- Spend time with loved ones and build meaningful relationships
- Practice acts of kindness and generosity
- Give and receive hugs
Serotonin: for a mood boost
- Get enough sun exposure
- Eat a diet rich in tryptophan (an amino acid found in protein-rich foods)
- Practice gratitude and positive thinking
Endorphins: for an exercise ‘high’
- Do fun high-intensity workouts
- Take daily walks (10 minutes minimum to get the boost)
- Massages and acupuncture treatments
Remember, boosting these neurotransmitters is a holistic process that involves taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Incorporating these tips into your daily routine can help you feel happier, more content, and more in control of your emotions.
