Where do feelings of happiness come from?

Where do feelings of happiness come from?
Photo: Icon image Hug / pixabay Pexels

There is no happiness without hormones.

As ambassadors in our body, hormones transmit nerve impulses to the brain via the synapses ...


... and are thus the basis of every emotion, every thought and every movement. Without them, nothing would work in our body. The hormones enter our body via the endocrine glands, the place of production of the hormones, via the bloodstream. There they then "get stuck" with the right receptors. It is precisely this process that then triggers the metabolic processes in the body.

There are six happiness hormones:

Serotonin has an influence on sleep, emotions, sexual behavior, appetite and pain sensation. For example, if the days are brighter and longer, the hormone provides more vigor.

Dopamine describes the feeling of elation and influences concentration and motivation. In addition, dopamine stimulates the reward center.

Norepinephrine can provide maximum mental performance. This hormone is triggered mainly in stressful situations. However, it converts stress into positive effects. Thus, norepinephrine has an impact on motivation, alertness and mental performance.

Endorphins are triggered during intense exercise, laughter and injuries. In addition, they have an analgesic and intoxicating effect, relieve stress. This hormone is especially important for the production of sex hormones and has a huge impact on the immune system.

Phenethylamines trigger concentration disorders, tingling in the abdomen or intoxication and thus regulate the feelings of pleasure and happiness. This hormone is felt, for example, when you are in love.

Oxytocin is used in social relationships and is also called the "cuddle hormone". It is responsible for well-being, sensation of love and trust, reduction of fears and stress, and empathy. It is also used to initiate childbirth or to intensify labor.

How it works:

Happiness arises in the reward center of our midbrain. But we feel happiness all over our body, which makes it an incredible feeling. The nerve cells, also called neurons, accumulate and receive electrical signals and then pass them on.

Give free rein!

Releasing happiness hormones is not difficult at all! During meditation, for example, the brain region of the pituitary gland and pineal gland, among others, is activated. The deep relaxation through meditation thus offers the ideal prerequisite for the production of the happiness hormones serotonin and endorphins.

But sport also promotes the release of hormones, especially dopamine. Above all, the combination of fresh air and intense exercise, e.g. when racing or cycling, is optimal for this. This is the reason why so many people enjoy sports. It says "the more often you exercise, the more constantly the hormones of happiness in your body increase". However, the combination is still most effective with good weather and sunshine, as the sun additionally activates the production of serotonin and thus pushes back the hormone melatonin, which makes us tired. It is very important to laugh often, because a lot of endorphins are released.

Especially in a bad mood, you should consciously make yourself laugh and overcome it. This works well, for example, through funny movies or beautiful memories. In addition, a balanced, healthy diet of carbohydrates, proteins and fats is recommended. This makes it easier to release serotonin.

Our tip, the following foods make you especially happy:

Bananas, nuts, fish, oatmeal, cheese and chocolate, because these foods contain the substance tryptophan, which is needed for the production of serotonin. Of course, a balanced diet cannot be replaced by these foods. Finally, a helpful tip: cuddle up! Oxytocin and serotonin are released precisely when touched. This is important not only for a parent-child bond, but also for adults. Touches and hugs ensure well-being, safety and joy. What are you waiting for?