There is power in positive thinking–and the power comes from you. and what you can do to have more “happy” neuro-chemicals.
SEROTONIN & POSITIVE THINKING
As far back as 2007 scientists* measured how positive thoughts change brain serotonin levels which is another key neurotransmitter in happiness. Professional actors were used since they could keep up an intense emotional state. Using a PET scan researchers found that focusing on happy memories resulted in increased uptake of the serotonin building blocks. Focusing on sad memories resulted in lower uptake. This supports the since replicated conclusion that we, by choosing to focus on happy thoughts, can self-regulate our brain’s neurotransmitters and change our brain’s chemical balance to support happiness.
DOPAMINE & MEDITATION
Another study shows why meditation makes monks among the happiest people on earth,
Dopamine is also crucial for happiness and relaxation, Researchers examined the changes in dopamine during meditation using positron emission tomography (PET) scanning on meditators. The dopamine increased significantly in an area called the basal ganglia during meditation. This is the first evidence that by focusing our thoughts, we can alter how the neurons in our brain fire, and increase dopamine release.
No prescription needed, no side-effects from medications. Your only cost is a bit of practice focusing on positive memories and thoughts or, if you are more ambitious, a bit of your time to learn to meditate.
* The Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience
MAXyourMIND 
Thanks, I needed this! Gotta keep up my positive energy. 😍
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Paula,
THANKS for taking your time to comment since it’s wonderful to know that all our posts aren’t being sucked into cyber space. Keeping up positive energy (I find) hard to do in these upending days.
Sending you love,
jw
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Much needed motivation for meditation as I am not very regular when it comes to meditation
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Laraib,
I am not very regular either. There is a book that inspires me, call “Joy on Demand” written by Cande-Meng Tan, which makes meditation seem easy and encourages even short meditation times.
Peggy
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Thanks for the added information about the book. I will surely find time to read it
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Laraib,
I hope you like it, let me know.
Peggy
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No prescription needed – just a daydream about what makes me happy – what a great idea. Cartoons today especially charming. Finally a dog that does more than Down Dog yoga pose!
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Shari,
SWEET dreams!
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That is super cool.
I think I’ll start a happy memory book and read from it regularly.😊🧠
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Wendy,
We all need reminders (I know I do) to focus on the “happy”. A happy memory book is a great idea. I also love post-it-notes on my bathroom mirror so I see the previous days “happy” first thing in the morning.
judy
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Oh, I love that!! Yes, I’m needing some happy reminders lately. Moving has been hard. 😕
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