I am Claire founder and owner of Willsway Counselling Services, a qualified Person-Centred counsellor and registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) Claire Williams - therapist in marske-by-the-sea-ts11.BACP and I’m super excited to share some top tips below, as I fully believe in a mind/body connection to healing, recovery, wellness, wellbeing and wholehearted, fully functional, authentic living
How do I practically increase positive hormones in my life?
Dopamine – reward and motivation – this can be built in through setting small goals and targets and then achieving them. When we set intentions and apply actionable steps towards change, we begin to see shifts in our physical and emotional wellbeing. Taking the time to notice the achievement and then rewarding yourself whether this be with a mental acknowledgement or whether you document it in a gratitude journal, popping a marble in a jar or treat yourself to something nice. When we reward ourself for the action this boosts our motivation to do it again, it is in building this positive momentum where more sustainable, long lasting change stems from.
Oxytocin – bonding, intimacy, connection. This is something we can cultivate throughout family, members, friends, and pets through physical, emotional, and mental connection. Whether it be a hug, waving to someone in the street, a smile or texting or speaking to a friend all of this helps us to feel seen, heard, felt connected. This boosts our self-esteem and confidence and builds our self-worth.
Serotonin – happiness, focus, calmness. Our system such as sleep, exercise, nutrition all play a factor in serotonin. Aside from eating foods high in tryptophan, exercise, and light therapy a high fibre diet are all good ways to naturally boost your serotonin levels and overall mood. Probiotic supplements may also help. The more we nourish ourselves the happier we feel, when we feel happy, balanced, and regulated we can better focus and in turn feel a sense of calmness,
Endorphins – removes pain and stress and promotes positive mindset, mood, and wellbeing. They are released during pleasurable activities such as exercise, massage, eating and sex too. Endorphins help relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve your sense of well-being. Music, dancing, hobbies, activities are all great natural ways to release endorphins into your system.
Continue continuing, I got you, you got me, we got this ~ stronger together always! #willsway
