Supplements may be helpful, but some aren’t recommended for people with certain health conditions. They can also interact with certain medications, so talk to a healthcare provider before you try them.

But what if instead of just waiting for hormones to be released when we do something that makes us feel good, we did things to intentionally trigger them; to motivate us to have healthier habits in our work, leisure time and relationships? According to studies, massage boosts endorphins and oxytocin. Older research found that massage also increases serotonin and dopamine. If you’ve heard of a “ runner’s high,” you might already know about the link between exercise and endorphin release.Yorks DM, et al. (2017). Effects of group fitness classes on stress and quality of life of medical students. Going for a run, swim or cycle – aerobic exercise (cardio) is best for stimulating serotonin because it more easily releases Tryptophan into the bloodstream than other less strenuous forms of exercise. Tryptophan is what your body then converts into Serotonin

Even if you don’t own a dog, you might also experience an oxytocin boost when you see a dog you know and like. If you’re a dog lover, this might happen when you get a chance to pet any dog at all. Most of us are aware at least of testosterone and oestrogen and the roles they play in human development. Weinstein D, et al. (2016). Group music performance causes elevated pain thresholds and social bonding in small and large groups of singers. According to research, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can increase the production of serotonin.Certain foods can also have an impact on hormone levels, so note the following when meal planning for a happy hormone boost: Phase 3 - The Luteal Phase (around days 15-21): the luteal phase comes next, and is when progesterone dominates. You will feel a sense of calm, low anxiety, and slowing of pace. You may have lower motivation, but high brain function so it's the perfect time to complete your 'to do list". "In terms of exercise, in this phase you can increase endurance as your body prefers to burn fat as its fuel source. This phase slows digestion so eat complex carbs, healthy fats and proteins. You may find you have a lower libido."

Its purpose (outside of childbirth) is to strengthen bonds between humans, help parents bond with their babies, maintain family units and bring mates closer together. In the Pre-Menstrual Phase, try to calm inflammation and control oil. Progesterone peaks which causes skin to swell and pores to tighten. "An imbalance of testosterone can increase oil production, which gets trapped in tight pores, causing pimples to form. Cleanse with a gentle foaming cleanser or oil cleanser. You can use anti-inflammatory spot treatments and calm skin and breakouts with cooling clay masks." Krishnakumar D, et al. (2015). Meditation and yoga can modulate brain mechanisms that affect behavior and anxiety—a modern scientific perspective.Bolbol-Haghighi N, et al. (2016). Effect of massage therapy on duration of labour: A randomized controlled trial.