13: Happiness: "The True Driver Of Success?" Wait What? I Thought It was Anger!

In this show our hosts Dave Frees and Somnath Sikdar (Alex is away) examine why happiness matters and has to be balanced with Anger and a true driver of success. There are over 20 happiness hacks and strategies that have some level of science to back them up.

https://www.facebook.com/intopform/videos/340175963046804/

Key Words: Happiness, happiness hacks, strategies of happiness,

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What You'll Learn In This Show:

The placebo effect and happiness

Dave's experience with the Dali Lama and happiness, shakti, and telling his holiness a joke.

Understanding: Happiness, gratitude, resilience, love, compassion...and desired/interrelated states, how they are created and how to have more of these states.

Resources: Psychology Today blog: The Neurochemistry of Happiness, The Hormones of Happiness, The Greater Good From Berkley University. The science of happiness. https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201211/the-neurochemicals-happiness Chris Bergland, http://www.indiatimes.com/health/healthyliving/the-hormones-of-happiness-and-how-to-increase-them-242282.html, http://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_trick_your_brain_for_happiness

There are four major chemicals in the brain that influence our happiness, create better states by designing your experiences to improve your mental chemistry and states. (DOSE):

1. Dopamine Ways to increase your dopamine levels: • Set daily or monthly goals, since they give you something to strive towards. • Set exercise goals, since dopamine increases in tandem with serotonin and endorphins when you exercise. Setting goals will increase the production of dopamine even more.• Eat foods that are rich in protein.• Set exercise goals, since dopamine increases in tandem with serotonin and endorphins when you exercise. Setting goals will increase the production of dopamine even more.• Eat foods that are rich in protein.
2. Oxytocin Ways to increase your oxytocin levels: • Get a massage, since it relaxes your muscles and the prolonged physical contact triggers the release of oxytocin.

• Show your friends and family that you love them by touching them affectionately. You can hug your parents, throw an arm around a friend or cuddle up with your partner.

1. Serotonin Ways to increase your serotonin levels:

• Spend time in the sun, since sunlight causes your body to produce Vitamin D, which triggers the release of serotonin. • Think happy thoughts, since your brain produces serotonin when you remember happy memories or think about things that make you happy.
• Consume foods like milk and corn, since they contain tryptophan, a substance that your body converts to serotonin. Other carbohydrates also contain tryptophan.
• Do a low-intensity workout, since your body produces serotonin when it is performing aerobic exercise, as opposed to the endorphins it produces during anaerobic exercise.

1. Endorphins. - Ways to increase your endorphin levels: • Exercise to cope with chronic pain.• Eat spicy food, since your tongue has receptors that react to spice by sending messages to your brain that are similar to pain signals, causing your brain to trigger the release of endorphins.

1. Endocannabinoids: "The Bliss Molecule" Endocannabinoids are self-produced cannabis that work on the CB-1 and CB-2 receptors of the cannabinoid system. Anandamide (from the Sanskrit "Ananda" meaning Bliss) is the most well known endocannabinoid. Interestingly, at least 85 different cannabinoids have been isolated from the Cannabis plant. The assumption is that each of these acts like a key that slips into a different lock of the cannabinoid system and alters perceptions and states of consciousness in various ways. It is likely that we self-produce just as many variations of endocannabinoids, but it will take neuroscientists decades to isolate them.

1. Dopamine: "The Reward Molecule" Dopamine is responsible for reward-driven behavior and pleasure seeking. Every type of reward seeking behavior that has been studied increases the level of dopamine transmission in the brain. If you want to get a hit of dopamine, set a goal and achieve it.

1. Oxytocin: "The Bonding Molecule" Oxytocin is a hormone directly linked to human bonding and increasing trust and loyalty. In some studies, high levels of oxytocin have been correlated with romantic attachment. Some studies show if a couple is separated for a long period of time, the lack of physical contact reduces oxytocin and drives the feeling of longing to bond with that person again. But there is some debate as to whether oxytocin has the same effect on men as it does on women. In men, vasopressin (a close cousin to oxytocin) may actually be the "bonding molecule." But again, the bottom line is that skin-to-skin contact, affection, love making and intimacy are key to feeling happy.

In a cyber world, where we are often 'alone together' on our digital devices, it is more important than ever to maintain face-to-face intimate human bonds and 'tribal' connections within your community. Working out at a gym, in a group environment or having a jogging buddy is a great way to sustain these human bonds and release oxytocin.

In a 2003 study, oxytocin levels rose in both the dog and the owner after time spent 'cuddling'. The strong emotional bonding between humans and dogs may have a biological basis in oxytocin. If you don't have another human being to offer you affection and increase oxytocin your favorite pet can also do the trick.

1. Endorphin: "The Pain-Killing Molecule" The name Endorphin translates into "self-produced morphine." Endorphins resemble opiates in their chemical structure and have analgesic properties. Endorphins are produced by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus during strenuous physical exertion, sexual intercourse and orgasm. Make these pursuits a part of your regular life to keep the endorphins pumping.

Endorphins are linked less to 'Runner's High' now than endocannabinoids, but are connected to the 'feeling no pain' aspect of aerobic exercise and are produced in larger quantities during high intensity 'anaerobic' cardio and strength training.

In 1999, clinical researchers reported that inserting acupuncture needles into specific body points triggers the production of endorphins. In another study, higher levels of endorphins were found in cerebrospinal fluid after patients underwent acupuncture. Acupuncture is a terrific way to stimulate the release of endorphins.

1. GABA: "The Anti-Anxiety Molecule" GABA is an inhibitory molecule that slows down the firing of neurons and creates a sense of calmness. You can increase GABA naturally by practicing yoga, meditation or "The Relaxation Response." Benzodiazepines (Such as Valium and Xanax) are sedatives that work as anti-anxiety medication by increasing GABA. These drugs have many side effects and risks of dependency but are still widely prescribed. A study from the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" found a 27% increase in GABA levels among yoga practitioners after a 60-minute yoga session when compared against participants who read a book for 60 minutes. The study suggests yoga might increase GABA levels naturally.

1. Serotonin: "The Confidence Molecule" Serotonin plays so many different roles in our bodies that it is really tough to tag it. For the sake of practical application I call it "The Confidence Molecule." Ultimately the link between higher serotonin and a lack of rejection sensitivity allows people to put themselves in situations that will bolster self-esteem, increase feelings of worthiness and create a sense of belonging. To increase serotonin, challenge yourself regularly and pursue things that reinforce a sense of purpose, meaning and accomplishment. Being able to say "I did it!" will produce a feedback loop that will reinforce behaviors that build self esteem and make you less insecure and create an upward spiral of more and more serotonin.

A variety of popular anti-depressants are called Serotonin-Specific Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) — these are well known drugs like Prozac, Celexa, Lexapro, Zoloft, etc. The main indication for SSRIs is clinical depression, but SSRIs are frequently prescribed for anxiety, panic disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, chronic pain, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

1. Adrenaline: "The Energy Molecule" Adrenaline, technically known as epinephrine, plays a large role in the fight or flight mechanism. The release of epinephrine is exhilarating and creates a surge in energy. Adrenaline causes an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and works by causing less important blood vessels to constrict and increasing blood flow to larger muscles. An "Epi-Pen" is a shot of epinephrine used in the treatment of acute allergic reactions.

An 'adrenaline rush' comes in times of distress or facing fearful situations. It can be triggered on demand by doing things that terrify you or being thrust into a situation that feels dangerous. You can also create an adrenaline rush by taking short rapid breathes and contracting muscles. This jolt can be healthy in small doses, especially when you need a pick me up.

25 Happiness Hacks:

http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/22/health/happiness-hacks/

Turn on a light box DMF: Verilux

Light therapy is an effective treatment for seasonal affective disorder (SAD), but experts agree that it works to treat symptoms of major depressive disorder as well. Feeling blue? You can turn on a light box for 30 minutes to an hour

Open the shades and close them (SLEEPMASK) DMF

If you don't have access to a light box, the simple act of letting in some sunlight can brighten your mood. When your workspace or living area is brighter, you tend to feel happier too.

Go outside

Starting to feel down? Head outside to soak up some sunshine. The human body produces vitamin D when exposed to the sun's rays, and research suggests that people who are deficient in the vitamin are more likely to be depressed, anxious, and tired. Step into the sunshine for 20 to 25 minutes of sunlight to lighten your mood naturally.

Try meditation DMF: Guided meditation, mantra meditation Mindfulness breathing Headspace and calm

Good news: Meditation is a proven stress-buster with no harmful side effects. Studies have shown that its benefits range from pain reduction and lower blood pressure to a boost in libido. Best part? It releases "happy" chemicals in the brain—serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins—all of which work together to put you in a better mood. If you don't know where to start, try a guided meditation to de-stress or start your morning.

Smell the oranges DMF essential oils

Citrus scents, such as orange, lemon, and grapefruit bring out positive chemical reactions in your brain as well as work to ease stress. If you want to feel uplifted, use a few drops of citrus essential oil on your pressure points. You can also mix the scent with a floral aroma such as jasmine to increase the positive effects.

Eat carbs as an afternoon snack

You know that afternoon mood slump that hits at just the worst time? Well, it turns out that you can eat your way to a happier, more energized afternoon—carbs. For years we've been hearing that we should avoid carbs, but in reality, a low-carb diet can make us feel sad and stressed. Carbohydrates actually boost mood-boosting chemicals in the brain. But let's get something straight here—we want to focus on healthy, whole-grain sources instead of refined carbohydrates to reap the benefits. When you begin to feel down, go for an afternoon snack of 25 to 30 grams of carbs, such as a three-quarter-cup serving of Cheerios.

Play with your pet

Having a dog or cat can seriously improve your quality of life—their excitement in seeing you come home and their unyielding loyalty make them great companions. There are a host of reasons why pets improve your health, but they can turn around a bad mood and make you happier in no time. A study found that petting a dog for only 15 minutes releases serotonin, prolactin, and oxytocin—all of which are mood-enhancing hormones, while lowering the stress hormone cortisol.

Take microbreaks

Research shows that people who take quick breaks during their workday to watch funny videos online get a high emotional payoff and report feeling more energetic and happy with fewer negative emotions. Not only will this improve your mental health overall; this is an easy way to turn around a bad mood in less than a minute—plus, you can get a metabolism boost, too!

Add turmeric to your meal

The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has natural antidepressant qualities. You may already be adding turmeric to your meals because of its vast whole-body health benefits, such as lessening the effects of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other inflammatory conditions, as well as fighting Alzheimer's disease and diabetes. Animal studies have also linked curcumin to an increase in serotonin and dopamine, so it's a powerful way to boost your mood.

Listen to music...

Have you ever heard a song over the radio that just felt good? Or have you turned on an old CD only to find a flood of happy memories come streaming back? Well, that's due to the fact that music is a mood-booster. It releases the feel-good chemical dopamine into your system and brings on nostalgia.

...And sing along

You can also get happy by making your own music—by singing. University of Manchester researchers discovered that a tiny organ in the inner ear (called the sacculus) is connected to a part of your brain that registers pleasure. The sacculus registers frequency notes that are associated with singing almost instantly, giving you a warm and fuzzy feeling. So go ahead and sing in the shower, belt it out in your car, or get up on that karaoke stage.

Eat chocolate (yes!)

While you might not need another excuse to eat more chocolate, here's another: It makes us happier. Chocolate contains tryptophan, which boosts the production of serotonin in the brain, leading to better moods. This trick also works with other foods containing tryptophan, such as poultry and eggs.

Drink coffee

This morning energy boost doubles as a mood pick-me-up. A Harvard University study found that women who drank at least two cups of coffee regularly were at a 15% lower risk of depression than women who did not. Just keep in mind that those fancy coffee drinks can have tons of hidden sugar and calories, so it's best to stick with black coffee (and some skim milk).

Sip on some green tea

Green tea already boasts an impressive résumé of health benefits. Thanks to the polyphenols it contains, green tea helps with weight loss by boosting metabolism, as well as providing a reduced risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, certain cancers, and osteoporosis. But for your mood? Green tea has been shown to reduce stress levels. A study found that people who drank five or more cups of green tea per day had a 20% lower level of stress than those who drank less than one.

Make a human connection

Put down your smartphone and take a step back from your computer screen. If you want to feel better—and fast—go to a friend or family member for some relief. A study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that human touch releases those feel-good chemicals like serotonin, as well as reduces blood pressure and heart rate making you feel more relaxed.

Consume healthy fats

You know how avocados are some of the most pleasurable foods to eat, with their rich taste and smooth, decadent texture? That's a mood-booster on its own, but research also suggests that their fat content is also the reason why they better our mood. Because fat slows digestion, it evens our blood sugar levels leaving us to feel calm and satisfied. So go ahead and treat yourself to some avocado or nuts next time you're feeling anxious.

Eat more salmon

Fatty fish like salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help stave off depression (omega-3s are also present in avocados and nuts, as well as grass-fed beef and chicken). This is because they help to maintain brain function in the areas that regulate mood and emotion—a study found that women who hate fish two times per week had a 25% lower risk of depression than women who ate it less often. If you don't like to eat fish, try taking omega-3 fish oil supplements instead.

Try St. John's wort WARNING!

This herbal supplement is one of the most-studied herbal supplements for depression, and research shows that it may be as beneficial as antidepressants when treating mild depression. While it may seem like a no-brainer, St. John's wort has known serious drug interactions, including reducing the effectiveness of birth control. Additionally, when taken in conjunction with antidepressants, the supplement can create too-high levels of serotonin, which can lead to heart problems. So before you try this one, be sure to check in with your doctor.