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If your day starts with setbacks like neck pain or minor accidents, you might feel like things are getting worse. However, according to psychologist Susan Albers, you can improve your mood by stimulating the happiness hormones.

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What Are Happiness Hormones?

Happiness hormones are chemical messengers in the brain that affect our mood, help regulate sleep, appetite, and many other processes. The main hormones involved are:

• Serotonin: regulates mood and sleep
• Dopamine: associated with pleasure and reward
• Oxytocin: enhances social bonding
• Endorphins: help relieve pain and boost happiness

According to the “Cleveland Clinic” website, here’s how to boost happiness hormones:

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Exercise

Physical activity stimulates the release of happiness hormones.

Cooking with Loved Ones

Cooking with people you care about triggers the release of dopamine and serotonin.

Being in Nature

Spending time in natural places like parks and lakes increases serotonin levels and reduces stress.

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Interacting with Friends and Family

Spending time with friends and family boosts oxytocin production.

Laughing

Laughter stimulates the release of endorphins and dopamine.

If you’ve tried these activities and don’t feel any improvement, it might be helpful to consult a mental health specialist or healthcare provider to check for any underlying causes.

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