Ever heard of dopamine high? Dopamine is a tiny neurotransmitter with a huge impact on our mental and physical well-being. This master chemical is strictly related to the brain’s reward system. In other words, when we engage in an activity or behavior we enjoy, there is a boost in dopamine. There are little fireworks in our brain’s reward center which makes us engage in that activity over and over again.
The same mechanism applies when it comes to drug addiction. That dopamine high is really powerful, but the great news is that we don’t need to resort to drugs to get it. There are natural ways to increase dopamine and feel light, happy and relaxed. So here’s how you can overcome depression, anxiety, apathy, rumination and fear:
1. Exercise
Regular exercise can really cause miracles for our mind and body. This activity will not only elevate dopamine D2 receptors in the brain, but will also increase your serotonin levels and release endorphins. According to numerous studies, it’s one of the most effective ways to combat depression and anxiety, as well as keeping our bodies healthy and young.
2. Eat dopamine-increasing food
Yes, you can boost dopamine levels naturally if you eat certain foods, particularly those that contain tyrosine. Tyrosine is an essential amino acid which is a precursor for dopamine. So get happy by eating these:
- eggs
- green tea
- milk
- watermelon
- coffee
- almonds
- bananas
- dark chocolate
- yogurt
MORE: 10 Important Signs That Your Body Is Under Too Much Stress
3. Reduce your lipopolysaccharideds
What does this mean? Lipopolysaccharideds are endotoxins which can wreak havoc on your immune system, therefore bad for your health. Not to mention they actually inhibit the production of dopamine. There is a way you can lower your lipopolysaccharideds and that is by taking care of your gut. Protect your gut with probiotics, yogurt, kefir, bananas and kimchi and you will allow dopamine to increase.
4. Listen to music
One of the easiest, quickest and most wonderful ways to boost dopamine is by listening to music. If it’s music you really like or maybe classical and calming music, you will literally feel like your brain is on fireworks. It’s free, natural and with no side effects.
5. Detox
It’s important to regularly cleanse your body. The fewer toxins in your body, the more super-charged your dopamine levels will be.
6. Make a list of things you wish to accomplish and cross them off when you’re done with a task
MORE: 10 Weird Habits Of People With Concealed Depression
Unless making lists stress you out even more. This is quite useful since our brains get a dopamine rush in the reward center every time we accomplish a task, be it small. This habit will also keep you focused on your goals by performing little tasks with clear end in sight.
7. Supplement
You can also boost dopamine levels with the right supplements:
- Curcumin which is found in turmeric
- L-theanine, a compound found in green tea, also increases dopamine
- Ginkgo Biloba
8. Get creative
Never neglect the human need for artistic endeavors. Whether it’s dancing, cooking, writing a poem or singing, go ahead and get crazy. You’ll feel replenished and just happier afterwards.
9. Meditation or yoga
More and more scientific studies agree that meditation and yoga can rewire our brain. They can effectively treat depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders as well as help our bodies be more in tune with our minds which is essential for well-being.
MORE: 10 Best Foods That Will Help You Reduce Stress And Anxiety
10. Being in nature
When is the last time you took a stroll through a forest? An actual forest? This is another effective and natural way to increase your dopamine levels. When outdoors, surrounded by green, your mind will declutter and help your system reboot.
