Some days it feels like we’re on top of the world, while other days it feels impossible to put on a smile. Our mood, whether influenced by internal or external factors, can have a significant impact on different areas of our lives: our levels of productivity, our interactions with others and even our general outlook on the day, week, or month. While some outcomes beyond our control may affect our mood, there are some natural ways to ensure we are managing our daily routine well.
Neurotransmitters: How They Control Your Mood
Many of our internal bodily processes, including mood regulation, are controlled by chemical substances called neurotransmitters. These chemical messengers interact with nerve and muscle impulses to direct different functions within the body. Below are some of the most common neurotransmitters associated with mood:
- Dopamine – comonly known as the “pleasure chemical”
- Serotonin – sometimes referred as the “calming chemical”
- Norepinephrine – associated with arousal, stress and mood
- Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) – nicknamed the “learning chemical”
The amount of these chemicals released in our bodies can exhibit a direct effect on our motivation, stress levels, sleep, decision-making, etc. However, there are some natural ways to counteract these imbalances and bring you back to feeling unstoppable.
Types of Natural Mood Boosters
Cannabidiol – Hemp Cannabidiol (CBD), interacts with various neurotransmitters, specifically GABA, to promote relaxation and balance to the central nervous system. Not only does CBD help calm your mind, but it also physically soothes you when used topically. Try incorporating our CBD products into your daily routine to improve your mood!
Exercise – Moving your body releases chemicals called endorphins, which are proven to boost energy levels. A morning yoga routine or an afternoon workout class can be a game-changer! Get active for a few minutes every day to brighten up your day.
Adaptogens – These herbs help with the regulation of our primary stress hormone, cortisol, which can have a significant impact on mood. Green Gorilla uses several different adaptogens in our product line including the Defense Capsules, Body Lotion, and Face Creme. When taken over a sustained time period, adaptogens help you destress and boost your mood!
Sunshine – Vitamin D, which we can get from sunlight, is known to boost more positive energy. All you need is 15-30 minutes per day to achieve the recommended amount of Vitamin D – soak up the sun!
Other Supplements – Other natural mood boosters include other substances such as Vitamin B-6, St. John’s Wort, Gotu Kola Leaf, Asian Ginseng and Chamomile. Many of these aid in the production or maintenance of neurotransmitters.