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====== The Neurochemicals of Happiness ======

Our magnificent brain has a pool of self-produced neurochemicals that
turn the pursuits and struggles of life into pleasure and making us feel happy
when we achieve them. We have the power to make ourselves happier.
However, the balance of neurochemicals has been disrupted by our modern way
of living making us more vulnerable to anxiety and depression. Pharmaceutical
companies prescribe pills, but you alone can improve your brain chemistry.
Seven of these brain molecules that are linked with a feeling of well-being are:

1. Endocannabinoids: “The Bliss Molecule”
These self-produced cannabis molecules are said to alter perception and state of
consciousness in various ways. A study argues that endocannabinoids are, most
likely, the cause for what athletes call “runner’s high”.

2. Dopamine: “The Reward Molecule”
Every type of reward-seeking behavior increases the level of dopamine
transmission in the brain. If you want to get a hit of dopamine, set a goal and
achieve it. Addictive drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine, block the
reuptake and the receptors of dopamine leaving it longer in the synaptic gap.

3. Oxytocin: “The Bonding Molecule”
Oxytocin is a hormone directly linked to the human bonding and increasing
trust/loyalty. In many studies, high levels of oxytocin correlate with romantic
attachment. Skin-to-skin contact, affection, lovemaking and intimacy are key to
producing oxytocin. In today’s world, where most of the day we are alone without
devices, it is of vital importance to maintain strong, healthy, intimate human
bonds and relationships.

4. Endorphin: “The Pain-Killing Molecule”
The self-produced morphine is made by the pituitary gland and the
hypothalamus during heavy physical exertion, sexual intercourse and orgasms.
It is also associated with the feeling of “no pain”. Acupuncture is a terrific way
to stimulate the release of endorphins, studies show.

5. GABA: “The Anti-Anxiety Molecule”
GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that works to slow down the firing of
neurons and creates a sense of calmness. Yoga might increase GABA levels
naturally. As a study showed, there was a 27% increase in GABA after a 60-
minute yoga session.

6. Serotonin: “The Confidence Molecule”
This neurotransmitter plays so many different roles in our bodies that it is really
tough to tag it. Higher serotonin levels link with lack of rejection sensitivity,
allowing people to boost their self-esteem and confidence. By accomplishing
your goals, self-esteem is built, insecurity is diminished and all of these create
more serotonin.
However, many people have to take anti-depressants which are called Serotonin
Specific Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like Prozac, Zoloft etc. because their
natural serotonin levels are low. SSRI’s got their name because we thought they
worked by keeping the serotonin molecules in the synaptic gap for longer.
Hence, it would work for everyone because we all have the same
neurochemicals. However, some people’s brain never responds to SSRI’s.

7. Adrenaline: “The Energy Molecule”
This neurochemical is produced by the adrenal glands and plays the biggest role
in the “flight or fight” response. It increases the heart rate, blood pressure and
agitates the organism, it works by restricting blood flow to less important blood
vessels, transferring it into larger muscles. Its production can be triggered by
terrifying and dangerous events.
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