Did you know your brain has its own built-in pharmacy?
Every day, your body produces chemicals that affect how you feel, think, and behave. These so-called happiness hormones can be consciously influenced. In my therapy practice, I regularly work with clients dealing with anxiety, low mood, or unexplained physical complaints. Sometimes, the solution is not in more talking, but in reactivating what your body already knows.

The Four Main Happiness Hormones

1. Dopamine – your inner motivator
Dopamine helps you focus, learn, and set goals. It gives you that satisfying feeling when you accomplish something.
Low levels? You feel sluggish, avoid tasks, and lack motivation.
Boost it? Try meditating, exercising, ticking off small tasks, or expressing yourself creatively through writing or art.

2. Oxytocin – the bonding hormone
Often called the “cuddle hormone,” oxytocin promotes connection, trust, and intimacy.
Low levels? You feel lonely, tense, or disconnected from others.
Boost it? Hug someone, talk with a friend, get a massage, listen to music, or meditate.

3. Serotonin – your stabilizer
Serotonin helps you feel confident, calm, and valued.
Low levels? You may experience mood swings, anxiety, low self-esteem, or sleep problems.
Boost it? Go for a walk in the sun, take a cold shower, move your body, or treat yourself kindly.

4. Endorphins – natural pain relievers
Endorphins provide a short burst of euphoria and help relieve pain or tension.
Low levels? You feel heavy, tense, or suffer from (chronic) pain.
Boost it? Laugh, cry, eat a piece of dark chocolate, enjoy spicy food, get creative, or move.

Therapy helps activate what’s already inside you
Many people believe happiness depends on external factors. But what if it’s also a biochemical process you can influence yourself? In therapy, we work together to uncover what’s blocking you and help you reconnect to your inner resources of peace, connection, and strength — step by step.

Want to learn how to get your brain working for you again?
Book a session or get in touch via www.lelela.nl. But only for those truly ready for change.