The “happy hormones” endorphins, oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin are secreted when you are in a state of play. Endorphins activate the body’s opiate receptors creating an analgesic (pain relieving) effect. Oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone”, helps calm your heart and put you in a state of euphoria, connection, and joy. Dopamine is related to reward-motivated behavior. Serotonin is vital for elevated moods. When you have fun, you tend to be focused on positive thoughts, which keep the body’s hormone-secreting glands producing healthy hormones that keep your heart and other organs in a state of wellness. When you don’t have enough fun in your life, stress builds up leading to chronically high levels of cortisol and other stress hormones leading to long-term inflammation and chronic degenerative conditions. The solution? Get a hobby that is FUN for YOU! Hang out with FUN people. When working, focus on the task at hand. When PLAYING, play hard and have FUN!
