Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

#1196 - Hack Your Child's Brain Chemistry (The Good Way!)


Listen Later

What if you could tap into your child's natural brain chemistry to boost motivation and reduce stress? Discover the "Happiness Quartet"—four key neurochemicals that can transform behaviour, learning, and family life. From barefoot walks on grass to risky play, learn practical ways to naturally boost these powerful brain chemicals for happier, more motivated kids.

Quote of the Episode: "Break big, difficult tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps - each step triggers a dopamine hit, which fuels motivation and sense of accomplishment."

Key Insights:

  • Dopamine works as an anticipation engine
  • Serotonin acts as a natural stress reducer
  • Endorphins serve as natural painkillers
  • Oxytocin builds trust and connection
  • Nature exposure boosts multiple positive chemicals
  • Physical activity enhances brain chemistry
  • Social connections trigger beneficial hormones
  • Breaking down tasks increases motivation

Resources Mentioned:

  • Neuroscience research on motivation
  • Serotonin and nature studies
  • Happy Families

Action Steps for Parents:

  1. The Dopamine Boost
    • Break tasks into smaller steps
    • Celebrate progress
    • Create anticipation
  2. The Serotonin Solution
    • Get outside in nature
    • Try barefoot grounding
    • Practice deep breathing
  3. The Endorphin Lift
    • Encourage physical activity
    • Make time for laughter
    • Allow calculated risks
  4. The Oxytocin Connection
    • Prioritise family meals
    • Share physical affection
    • Create trust-building moments

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy FamiliesBy Dr Justin Coulson

  • 4.9
  • 4.9
  • 4.9
  • 4.9
  • 4.9

4.9

137 ratings


More shows like Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

View all
Mamamia Out Loud by Mamamia Podcasts

Mamamia Out Loud

590 Listeners

This Glorious Mess by Mamamia Podcasts

This Glorious Mess

38 Listeners

No Filter by Mamamia Podcasts

No Filter

595 Listeners

Ladies, We Need To Talk by ABC listen

Ladies, We Need To Talk

340 Listeners

Parental As Anything by ABC listen

Parental As Anything

41 Listeners

The Imperfects by Hugh van Cuylenburg, Ryan Shelton & Josh van Cuylenburg

The Imperfects

442 Listeners

Beyond the Bump by Sophie Pearce & Jayde Couldwell

Beyond the Bump

94 Listeners

Lise and Sarah by Those Two Girls

Lise and Sarah

49 Listeners

Something To Talk About by Stellar

Something To Talk About

106 Listeners

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show by LiSTNR

The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show

95 Listeners

Pop Culture Parenting by Dr Billy Garvey, Nick McCormack

Pop Culture Parenting

74 Listeners

But Are You Happy? by Mamamia Podcasts

But Are You Happy?

48 Listeners

ADHD Mums by Jane McFadden

ADHD Mums

13 Listeners

The Good Enough Dad with Maggie Dent by Maggie Dent

The Good Enough Dad with Maggie Dent

8 Listeners

MID by Mamamia Podcasts

MID

91 Listeners