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.

written by Vasilis Katopodis