DOSE Your Brain for Better Mental Health
Your brain's DOSE of neurotransmitters—Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, and Endorphins—plays a crucial role in your mood, motivation, and overall mental well-being. Let’s break it down:
🔹 Dopamine (The Reward) – Boosts motivation & pleasure
📊 Low levels are linked to depression & procrastination
✨ Increase it with: small goals, exercise, music, and celebrating wins
🔹 Oxytocin (The Love Hormone) – Enhances connection & trust
📊 Higher oxytocin = lower stress & anxiety
✨ Increase it with: hugs, social bonding, acts of kindness, and petting animals
🔹 Serotonin (The Mood Stabilizer) – Regulates mood & happiness
📊 80-90% of serotonin is produced in the gut
✨ Increase it with: sunlight, healthy diet, mindfulness, and gratitude
🔹 Endorphins (The Natural Painkiller) – Reduces pain & boosts joy
📊 Exercise can increase endorphins by 30%
✨ Increase it with: laughter, dark chocolate, exercise, and deep breathing
By intentionally boosting your DOSE, you can minimize stress, anxiety, and depression while improving your daily mental health. Try incorporating these small habits into your routine—your brain will thank you!