Nayra Jain
May 17, 2025
Neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin regulate mood and pleasure. Dopamine motivates rewards, serotonin stabilises mood, and oxytocin strengthens social bonds, all contributing to a sense of happiness.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Strong social connections boost oxytocin levels, reduce stress, and promote longevity. People with supportive relationships tend to report higher life satisfaction and resilience to challenges.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Practising gratitude rewires the brain to focus on positive experiences, increasing dopamine and serotonin. Regularly acknowledging what we’re thankful for improves mental health and overall happiness.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Mindfulness meditation encourages present-moment awareness, reducing rumination and anxiety. This practice enhances emotional regulation, leading to greater contentment and decreased stress.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, often called ‘feel-good’ hormones. Regular physical activity also improves sleep, reduces anxiety, and fosters a positive self-image.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Having a sense of purpose activates reward centres in the brain. Pursuing meaningful goals aligns with intrinsic motivation, which supports long-term happiness beyond fleeting pleasures.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Helping others stimulates dopamine production, known as the ‘helper’s high’. Altruistic acts strengthen community bonds and enhance feelings of self-worth and happiness.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Quality sleep is essential for emotional regulation and cognitive function. Poor sleep disrupts brain chemistry and can increase the risk of depression and anxiety, undermining happiness.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Research shows genetics contribute around 40-50% to individual happiness levels. However, environment and choices heavily influence how genetic predispositions manifest.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Humans quickly adapt to changes in circumstances, returning to a baseline level of happiness. Understanding this helps in focusing on lasting, intrinsic sources of joy instead of temporary thrills.
Image Source: Meta-AI
Thanks For Reading!