Are struggling to find your happy place? Well, you are not alone. It would seem that we as a nation are struggling to see the joy in even the smallest of things. What could be the cause of this blue movement? While it may be impossible to attribute everyone’s misery to one culprit. We can conclude that everyone experiencing a drop in their joy have one thing in common, their hormone levels are out of balance. It is important to note that there are several different hormones that help regulate our emotions.
Quick Fix VS Ever After
Two hormones that are most commonly associated with our happiness level are: Dopamine and Serotonin. Dopamine is triggered by short-term stimulants and provides more of a pleasure than true happiness. It also provides more of a physical response and acts on the physical body. Serotonin, on the other hand, is triggered by long-term stimulants and it’s focus on providing a sense of contentment. Unlike Dopamine, Serotonin has more of an effect on the brain resulting in complete state of bliss. Both hormones are required to achieve a more balanced state of happiness.
Break it Down
Want to know more about this hormone that has the ability to establish feelings of contentment? You are in luck, because that is what this article is all about, now let’s get to know Serotonin a little better. Serotonin is found mostly in the digestive system, although it also occurs in blood platelets, and throughout the Central Nervous System. It is made during the breaking down of the amino acid tryptophan. Serotonin is considered a natural mood stabilizer. It can also aid with the following issues: sleeping, eating, digestion, reducing risk of depression, lowering anxiety, improving wound healing, stimulating nausea, maintaining bone health, and the regulation of the libido.
Watch Out For
While it is incredibly difficult to have too much Serotonin it is extremely common to have too low Serotonin levels. The following is a list of common signs and symptoms that can indicate too low Serotonin in the body:
- Anxiousness
- Depression
- Panic
- Mental Obsessions
- Headaches
- Post Menopausal Symptoms
- Sleep Cycle Disruptions
- GI Distress
- Obesity
- Irritable Bowels
- Fibromyalgia
- Pain
- Behavioral Compulsions
- Crave Carbs
Men Vs Women
Did you know that men and women metabolize Serotonin differently? With that in mind, low levels of Serotonin can present differently as far as symptoms are concerned too. In men poor Serotonin signaling can result in the following: ADHD, alcoholism, anger, rudeness, sex addiction, and drug addictions. This can be due to an over compensation with Dopamine resulting in too much Dopamine and still too low Serotonin. In women poor Serotonin signaling can result in: anxiety, depression, emotional sensitivity, carb cravings, and weight gain.
Take It All In
With low Serotonin levels becoming the new normal, it pays to have as many all natural options as possible to help boost those levels. What kind of doctor would I be if I didn’t provide you with multiple solutions to the problem I have now made you aware of? That’s right an awful one. The following are some of my favorite ways to boost your Serotonin levels aromatically!
- Bergamont Essential Oil
- Wild Orange Essential Oil
- Grapefruit Essential Oil
- Lime Essential Oil
- Tangerine Essential Oil
- Lavender Essential Oil
Breath Deep
I love to use essential oils because it is a way for to see instant results. Unlike supplement and nutrition, essential oils can provide a quick fix to get you through a short period of time. Unfortunately, like most things in life, there is a catch. While the use of aromatherapy can provide instant relief it is also short lived. For more long term results, which is what everyone should be striving for you will need to make either dietary changes or think about adding a supplement or two. Be sure to check back for even more ideas on foods to incorporate into your daily routine (with great recipes to try right now) and even a list of supplements to discuss with your primary doctor.
Keep it Simple
For those of you out there who are not into the wonderful scent options that come from aromatherapy, here is a list of additional all natural ways to increase your Serotonin levels.
- Go Outside and Get Some Sunlight
- Exercise (Yoga is a Great Option)
- Meditation
- Massage
- Remember All the Good Times You’ve Had
- Give Back By Volunteering
- Avoid Alcohol at ALL Costs!
Kick it Old School
Getting back out into nature is one of the best ways to naturally balance out your hormones. Not only is it free, it has been linked to several health benefits. Why not go for a 30 minute walk everyday with a friend? Meditation is another cost free exercise that can help rewire your brain naturally in as little as 30 days. All you have to do is meditate for 5 minutes a day. If you have trouble quieting your thoughts try a guided meditation (I love Gabby Bernstein). The act of remembering good times actually helps to increase Serotonin production in the body by recreating that same state. While alcohol, on the other hand, lowers your Serotonin levels even further!
Don’t Worry
I hope this article helps put you one step closer on the road to your happiness. As always if you think you may be at risk for low Serotonin levels request a hormone test from your primary doctor. Make sure you consult with them regarding any supplement additions to avoid any possible interactions with pre-existing medications. I will continue to do my best to provide you with the educational content that will help you take back control of your health and life. Keep an eye out for the next article on nutritional options to improve Serotonin levels and the key to what is causing the reduction in Serotonin levels!
Need A Hand?
Are you ready to start taking back control of your health? Our health is something that we all have to deal with daily, and when we don’t feel our best, it shows. If you are tired of just making it through your day then you NEED to start investing in your health today! You are not alone on this journey. If you ever need any help I am always here to do just that. Even if it is something as small as just acting as a sounding board. Do you have any questions or concerns I can help you with? Feel free to contact me directly at [email protected] or you can even book a one-on-one call with me. Be sure to subscribe to gain access to tons of free goodies and check back daily for more great recipes and information!