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What You Need to Know About the Stress Hormone Cortisol
Imagine this: You’ve had to cut back your work hours because childcare fell through, and now money is tight. Your husband is working extra hours and comes home too exhausted to help with the kids or housework. On top of that, a family member keeps asking for money, and you know you’ll have to say no again. Your job is demanding, and you never have enough time to finish everything you need to do. Then, on a particularly rough morning, your dog was sick all night, and your baby was up teething, leaving you with only a few hours of sleep. You overslept, scrambled to get out the door, and realized you forgot the diaper bag. After turning back to get it, your gas light turned on. On your way to get gas, you hit road work. Not only that, but your baby cried the entire car ride. In these moments of chaos and exhaustion, your body is producing the stress hormone cortisol . Cortisol is crucial for handling acute stress, but when elevated for too long, it can take a toll on your health. Contrary to popular belief, cortisol is not inherently bad. It is essential for various bodily…
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The Power of Dopamine and Reward in Everyday Life
Imagine you’re crossing the finish line of a challenging race, your legs burning with exertion, your lungs filled with the sweet taste of victory. As the crowd cheers, you feel an exhilarating rush of accomplishment, a surge of energy that wipes away the fatigue and leaves you with an unshakeable sense of triumph. In that electrifying moment, you are riding high on a wave of pure euphoria, your heart pounding with joy. But what if I told you that this surge of exhilaration isn’t just about crossing the finish line? What if I told you that it’s also the work of a powerful chemical in your brain called dopamine? This “reward molecule” fuels our ambition, drives our motivation, and enhances our moments of triumph and joy. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the captivating world of dopamine and reward, and uncover its vital role in our mental and emotional well-being. From its role in motivation to its influence on addiction, join us as we explore the science behind dopamine and how this remarkable neurotransmitter helps shape our lives. Exploring Dopamine: What is it and How is it Made? Dopamine, often called the “reward neurotransmitter,” is vital for motivation, pleasure,…
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How to Increase Serotonin: The Science Behind Mood-Altering Hormones
Picture yourself standing on the edge of a cliff, feeling the cool breeze gently ruffling your hair as you look out at the vast expanse of the ocean below. The sun is hanging low in the sky, casting beautiful streaks of crimson and gold across the horizon, and for a moment, everything feels just perfect. Take a deep breath and enjoy the salty scent of the sea air, letting a sense of calm wash over you like a warm hug. In that brief moment, you’re overcome with a feeling of contentment and peace—a truly serene moment. But what if I told you that this feeling of bliss wasn’t just a product of your surroundings? What if I told you that it was actually the result of a tiny molecule being produced in your brain called serotonin. This “happiness hormone” plays a significant role in shaping your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, making our cherished memories and emotional well-being possible. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of serotonin and uncover its powerful influence on our mental and emotional well-being. From its impact on our mood to its role in shaping our everyday experiences, join us as we explore…
