Happiness is an amazing feeling that far too many of us struggle to maintain. The fact that we are alive at all is a blessing in itself. However, instead of enjoying each and every day, we sometimes allow ourselves to be overwhelmed by life’s obstacles. Admittedly, it’s easy to do.

Wouldn’t it be awesome if you could be happy all the time? Well, scientific research shows that you actually can boost your level of happy brain chemicals. The level of happiness in your life is controlled by the amount of “happy” chemicals and hormones that your brain produces. Luckily, there are a number of natural ways to boost the amount of these chemicals.

Did you know that just thinking about being happy can change your brain’s chemical structure? The human brain is an amazing thing. In fact, neurologists believe that the human brain is the most powerful tool on the planet.

While it is true that the human brain is responsible for magnificent creations, why can’t we manifest our own happiness. Well, it is possible, but not many people know the correct way to go about doing it.

7 Proven Ways To Boost Your Happy Brain Chemicals

7. Increase Good Gut Bacteria

Scientists have recently discovered that having a healthy level of good gut bacteria can actually decrease anxiety. Experts believe that probiotics found in fermented foods to be rich in beneficial gut bacteria. Taking a daily probiotic supplement can also help.

6. Hug

Have you ever wondered why babies need to be held so much? Nothing calms a crying baby like a mother’s touch, but why is this so? Well, a warm hug actually releases oxytocin in the brain. Oxytocin is a bonding hormone that provides a happy and familiar feeling.

The next time that you are feeling down, try embracing a loved one in a long and passionate hug. You should feel a sense of relief almost immediately.

5. Go In the Sun

The sun is one of our most powerful allies. Aside from providing warmth, the sun gives life to trees, plants, and animals. Without the sun, our planet would freeze over completely. Life as we know it would cease to exist. Likewise, without the sun, happiness is hard to maintain as well.

Humans and nearly every other living creature on this planet requires sunlight to survive – it is more important that most people realize. A walk outside on a sunny day is a great way to boost your serotonin levels. Furthermore, sunlight increases the production of the sleep hormone known as melatonin. Not only will regular exposure to sunlight make you happier, but you will also sleep much better.

4. Writing It Down

Throughout our lives, we have been taught to write down our goals and aspirations. Unfortunately, not many of us actually do this. However, writing down your happiness goals will make it a reality. Furthermore, doing this will calm your amygdala, which will cause you to carry around less fear.

“When we deny our stories, they define us. When we own our stories, we get to write the ending.” ~Brene Brown

Highly Recommended Book: Rising Strong by Brene Brown

3. Deep Breathing

Practicing the art of deep breathing will be very beneficial for a number of different reasons. For one, deep breathing slows down the heart rate. Deep breathing also activates the parasympathetic nervous system.

In order to practice deep breathing, you should first sit in a comfortable position. Your surroundings must be quiet and peaceful. Next, inhale for 5-7 seconds and exhale slowly. Practicing this breathing method over and over will induce the production of happy chemicals.

2. Laughing/Smiling

Turn that frown upside down! Did you know that laughing and smiling are two of the most powerful things that you can do to boost your own happiness? Even if it is fake or forced, it still get’s your brain to star producing good-vibe substances. When you smile, your brain releases happy chemicals that can make you feel better instantly. Don’t believe us? Just look in the mirror and smile. You won’t be able to hold back a smile, but that’s a good thing!

Scientists believe that laughing is linked to the release of endorphins. Laughing also increases feel-good chemicals in the brain. Laughter provides pleasure and reduces pain. If you can’t laugh, just pretend to. Laughter is very important when it comes to boosting your happiness.

1. Sleep

Not getting enough rest can be one of the worst things for your happiness. Furthermore, not getting enough sleep can actually be very detrimental to your health. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 7 hours of sleep is the minimum recommended amount of sleep required. Unfortunately, almost 50% of Americans sleep less than 7 hours on a daily basis.

Poor sleep habits can lead to serious side effects such as insomnia, stress, and anxiety. Feel-good hormones such as serotonin are produced in the brain during sleep. Furthermore, the chemicals located in the brain that are linked to happiness get messed up altogether without proper sleep.

In order to fix this problem, you must implement a healthier sleep routine. It’s a good idea to go to sleep at the same time every night, and it’s also wise to exercise often. Exercise will fatigue the body, and you will fall asleep much easier. Drinking a warm glass of milk and taking melatonin will help as well.