In your mood

It seems Christmas moves us inside. It’s no wonder this time of year stirs something within us. As the season approaches, two neurotransmitters come into play, influencing a wide range of essential brain functions—from regulating emotions to shaping eating behaviors. We’re talking about dopamine and serotonin.

Serotonin, in particular, impacts our mood and is closely linked to tryptophan, which is essential for serotonin synthesis.

There are natural remedies to help maintain stable serotonin levels and promote a balanced mood:

• – Maintain a varied diet and consume foods rich in tryptophan, such as cheese and milk, chicken and turkey, eggs, tuna and salmon, or pumpkin seeds, among others.
• – Increase Omega-3 intake.
• – Avoid coffee and other stimulating beverages.
• – Adopt a healthy lifestyle, incorporating exercise and physical activity.
• – Seek out spaces with natural sunlight.
• – Get adequate rest and ensure you sleep enough hours.
• – Reduce stress levels.
• – Practice relaxation exercises, such as yoga.

In addition to these strategies, there are everyday actions that can boost serotonin levels and improve your overall well-being. These include listening to music you enjoy, giving or receiving a hug, taking a warm shower, and fostering positive relationships in your environment.