Natural Mood Enhancers

Our mood, morale and attitude play a very important role in not only deciding the course of our life but also the way we deal with whatever comes our way; the good as well as the bad times. Life as we know it is a series of events that require our constant thought and physical activity. For which we need energy, energy that decides our outlook and our approach to things. Neurotransmitters of the brain, like, serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine and endorphin activate many of our feelings and a normal level is associated with happiness, joy, confidence, etc. while a low level brings feelings of pain, stress, depression and anxiety at the forefront. Natural mood enhancers ensure that our energy levels don't dip. Take a look at a few basic ones and make sure to incorporate them in your lifestyle. Read more on serotonin deficiency.

Mood Enhancement Ideas

Food: Food has always been an integral part of our life and culture, not just to sustain our hunger but also to get us up and moving. Most foods are natural mood enhancers. The production of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine and endorphin and other important neurotransmitters are affected by the quality and quantity of the nutrients in our body. As we get these vital nutrients from the food we eat, it is essential to eat a balanced diet. A healthy diet should include whole cereals and grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, lean white meat, etc. Calcium, magnesium and vitamin B complex are essential for serotonin production. The food we eat should be split into five to six meals a day, this way our body will have a constant stream of nutrition. Processed foods and foods with high fat content should be avoided, though an occasional bite balanced with healthy foods can be eaten. Healthy eating will help one maintain a good weight and keep the blood sugar and cholesterol levels down.

Exercise: Exercise is a natural mood booster and the easiest way to boost up your energy levels. Hormones associated with mood upliftment, serotonin and dopamine get released as we exercise our bodies regularly. Exercise need not be about hitting the gym or a couple of hours workout. An hour's walk in fresh air and sunlight combined with some yoga or a half-hour workouts will also stimulate the production of serorotnin. Exercise should not be just restricted to the concept of looking good, although when you feel uplifted and happy, you will look good! The concept of 'walk in the mornings' is associated with sunlight, a natural stimulator and a way of keeping the mind calm and happy, which helps to ease out negativity and bring positivity in our approach to life. Alternative therapies, like, aromatherapy also helps to calm the mind. Read more on walking exercises.

Sleep: Uninterrupted eight hour sleep in not just recommended for the dreams it brings, but to give the body the much needed rest after putting it through a series of activities through out the day. Sleep rejuvenates the body and the mind. Lack of sleep slows down the production of serorotnin. Insomnia, frequent tossing and turning can have an adverse effect on the body, leading to fatigue, irritation and a low level of concentration. If one has trouble sleeping, try some meditative therapies, like, yoga, aroma, or even a glass of warm milk to calm the mind and body. A glass of warm milk to get good sleep is grandma's time tested remedy. Milk contains Tryptophan, an amino acid that works like a natural tranquilizer, calming and soothing the mind. Avoid sleeping with the light on or watching television late into the night. Do not disrupt the body's natural rhythm, sleep and wake up on time.

Read more on increase serotonin naturally and serotonin supplements.

Sometimes the above mentioned natural mood enhancers fall short of uplifting our mood, because the demands made by the body are sometimes difficult to understand. To compensate for any such deficiencies, one can take herbal mood enhancers and / or dietary supplements of vitamin B complex and vitamin B12, omega 3 essential fatty acids from fish oil supplements, calcium, magnesium, etc. on a doctor's recommendation. And of course there always is the CHOCOLATE!