Get your Daily D.O.S.E
I know most of you will think caffeine- but we actually mean the four happiness chemicals that make up the acronym D.O.S.E.
DOPAMINE (Reward & Motivation) is released when we anticipate or accomplish a reward. It motivates us to work towards our goals and gives us a sense of pleasure when we achieve them. Activities such as eating delicious food, achieving a goal at work or trying something new can trigger the release of dopamine.
OXYTOCIN (Love & Connection) also known as the ‘cuddle hormone’, is released when we bond with others. It’s the chemical that helps us form trust and social connections. Hugging a loved one, spending time with a pet or even volunteering can trigger the release of oxytocin.
SEROTONIN (Good Mood) is a chemical that regulates mood, appetite and sleep. It’s often called the ‘feel-good hormone’ because it contributes to a sense of wellbeing and happiness. Exposure to sunlight, grounding yourself in nature or gratitude journaling can help increase serotonin levels.
ENDORPHINS (Pain & Stress) are released during physical activity. This can be anything from a yoga class, HIIT workout, even a good old belly laugh will get the endorphins flowing. They act as natural painkillers and contribute to a sense of wellbeing and relaxation.
How amazing is that we can use our brain and body as a tool for happiness and healing! And you can do it all under one roof at W + B.
Czech researchers have shown that Cold Water Therapy can increase blood concentrations of dopamine by a whopping 250%! We were slightly surprised by how popular our ice bath is - given how cold Dunedin can get!
On the other extreme is heat. Infrared sauna also increases these amazing neurotransmitters - in particular endorphins - that’s why we feel so good after it. Not only that, observational research from Finland has shown men who used the sauna 4-7 times per week had a 65% reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease and other Dementia.
So why not get a double hit of dopamine by experiencing something which makes you happy that you have not experienced before?
