As a sailor in my early twenties, I learned that keeping a steady course was critical. Once you react too quickly and overcorrect, it is much harder to regain a calm point of sail that works with waves and wind, not against them.
Navigating life’s challenges can sometimes feel like sailing against strong winds. Just as sailors must maintain a steady course to avoid overcorrection, our minds and bodies benefit from balance and awareness of our neurochemistry. As we face unprecedented challenges, especially with the recent devastating wildfires in California and global political tensions, it’s more important than ever to find calm. If we feel happy and calm, we are less stressed. Here are three actionable tips to enhance our awareness of serotonin and promote well-being.
Why Serotonin Matters
Serotonin is often referred to as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, playing a crucial role in regulating mood, happiness, and overall mental well-being. When our serotonin levels are balanced, we experience less stress and inflammation, reducing the risk of illness. Experts are enthusiastic about recent evidence that holistic lifestyles can postpone the mental slowing that happens as we age or through illness. If you are genetically at risk for Dementia or Alzheimer's, all the more reason to pay attention! Serotonin is one among a symphony of neurochemicals. Follow us to learn more.
1. Embrace Morning Sunlight
Try to get sun exposure without sunglasses for 1-15 minutes in the morning, midday, and afternoon. This simple practice encourages the natural release of serotonin and can significantly boost your mood and energy levels.
2. Daily Exercise
Daily Exercise is known to increase serotonin levels. When motor neurons fire, serotonin synthesis and release are boosted. If you can do this in nature you will double the benefit. A sense of awe, the sight of water, the scent of the woods have mood elevating benefits, as do social sports.
3. Explore these scents
The power of smell is remarkable! According to the Tisserand Institute, essential oils like lemon, lavender, and ylang-ylang can activate both dopamine and serotonin receptors. Diffusing these essential oils or using natural perfumes with these ingredients can be an effective way to enhance your mood. Check out our collection here for some delightful options.
As a lifelong learner, I recently completed a course on optimizing brain chemistry through herbal practices. This course reinforced the importance of holistic lifestyles in maintaining mental acuity, especially for those at risk of cognitive decline. Through a combination of exercise, diet, and specific supplements, including nootropics and herbs, we can enhance our brain health.
In today’s dopamine-driven culture, we often equate productivity with worthiness. However, it’s vital to embrace rest, reflection, and social interactions as integral parts of our lives. Alternating periods of activity with rest can promote a sustainable emotional baseline, allowing for healthier serotonin levels.
A Recipe for Adventurers: Take anywhere you go with single use packets!Ingredients:
1 packet Apothekary Stop-your-wineing®
8 oz sparkling water
splash of cranberry juice
squeeze of fresh lime
For extra relaxation, add 1-2 droppers of Apothekary Take The Edge Off
To Make:
Mix ® with a little bit of sparkling water until well incorporated.
Add ice and remaining sparkling water to the top.
Squeeze lime wedge and a splash of cranberry juice into the glass.
Give one final stir to mix!
*Traveler's Trick: Slip the bartender Apothekary Stop-your-wineing® for a freshly-shaken beveragewith the ingredients above. Cheers!Use Code STAYWELL15 for a discount.
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By embracing these simple yet effective strategies, you can enhance your serotonin levels and navigate life’s challenges more calmly. Remember, these tips are a starting point—always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
As a lifelong learner, I recently completed a course on optimizing our brain chemistry from an herbal lens taught by Charis Linderooth, with guest lectures from David Winston and Christopher Hobbs.
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