Our brain releases a neurotransmitter, dopamine, which is crucial for the following body functions:
-Regulating movement
-Controlling the center of pleasure and reward in the brain
-Improving the cognitive functions (knowledge, attention, memory, decision-making, evaluation, problem solving)
-Regulating the secretion of prolactin.
Here is how to naturally increase your DOPAMINE levels:
1. Exercise– The exercise of every kind raises the levels of dopamine, serotonin, and endorphin. Regular exercise provides happiness, strengthens the body, and reduces stress.
2. Avoid Addictions– Addiction to alcohol, drugs, gambling, sex, and even shopping, provide an instant pleasure, but it is not a permanent solution. Additions only temporarily satisfy our needs.
3. Detoxification– regularly detoxify your system, as the accumulation of toxins and bacteria in the body prevents the dopamine production and weakens the immunity.
4. Increase Tyrosine– Tyrosine is one of the 22 essential amino acids used for the creation of proteins. In order to raise its levels in the body, your diet should include green tea, watermelon, almonds, bananas, avocados, and dark chocolate.
5. Music– Dopamine levels are also increased through listening to music, even though it may be short-term. Therefore, use music as a common way to raise dopamine levels.
6. Organize your life- The levels of dopamine are raised in the case of organized small daily tasks, even though they are hard at times. You should write your tasks down on a piece of paper, and check them off. This way, you will be satisfied as you note that you finish them one by one.
7. Creativity– The levels of dopamine in the brain are also elevated with a creative activity. This will also keep you focused. Simple act of dancing, singing, writing, sculpturing, painting, drawing, cooking, knitting, making crafts, and auto repair, increases your level of happy right away.
8. Get a Streak Going- In this sense, “streak” will mean a visual reminder of the number of times in a row you do something as you see ‘checking off’ one goal after another on your list. This is similar to organizing the tasks, and accomplishing them.
9. Supplements– Dopamine levels can also be raised through supplementation, such as:
Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, Ginkgo Biloba, Acetyl-l-tyrosine, L-theanine (Green tea is a rich source of l-theanine)
10. Meditation– Meditation raises the levels of dopamine in a different way that cardio exercises. It improves your mood, creates mental energy, and relaxes the mind. Meditation is an efficient way to reduce stress on a daily basis.