“Learn to use your emotions to think, not think with your emotions.” – Robert Kiyosaki
Have you wondered how emotions are made? I know it sounds complicated as a non-scientist, but the thought of understanding how it works surely crossed everyone’s mind. The science of happiness was explained to us during one of our Integral Human Development class sessions.
Human emotions like fear, pleasure, joy, anger, cravings, sleep, pain, energy and alertness are crafted by neurotransmitters—chemical messengers in the human body. These messengers relay signals from one nerve cell to the next, enabling movement, sensations, heart function, and the processing of information from both internal and external stimuli in our body and surroundings, as shared by our speaker, Dr. Robin Velasco.
Not everyone may find this subject intriguing, but I find it incredibly valuable as someone in the midst of personal growth with a profound curiosity about my emotions. Balanced neurotransmitter levels are pivotal for sustaining steady moods and emotional strength in a world driven by emotions. Serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters shape how I experience emotions.
Any imbalances in these levels can profoundly affect my mental well-being, potentially leading to conditions such as depression, anxiety, or mood disorders. Fortunately, healthy lifestyle activities such as physical exercise and meditation can boost these chemical messengers. That’s why I am committed to returning to working out and beginning this journey soon.
Another significant lesson I’ve gathered about balancing neurotransmitters extends beyond their impact solely on my emotional and mental well-being. These chemical messengers substantially influence my physiological functions, sleep patterns, pain perception, and cognitive abilities. Maintaining a balanced level of these messengers is important for optimal brain function and mental clarity.
Imbalances may hinder my cognitive abilities and affect my decision-making processes. As a student and a working professional, I recognize the long-term advantages of enhancing my dopamine levels. I am now aware that dopamine plays a key role in concentration and attention, which are vital components in effective decision-making.
Furthermore, the discussion enlightened me about the potential for optimizing neurotransmitters to significantly improve my productivity, efficiency, and overall well-being at work. Key takeaways include the following:
Nurturing Positive Relationships: Building positive connections and fostering a supportive work environment can elevate oxytocin and serotonin levels. Collaboration, appreciation, and camaraderie contribute to a more balanced neurochemical state.
Maintaining Work-Life Balance: Striking a balance between work and personal life is crucial to prevent chronic stress, which can disrupt neurotransmitter equilibrium. Engaging in hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and unwinding contribute to holistic well-being.
Task Accomplishments and Motivation: Completing tasks triggers dopamine release, reinforcing motivation and a sense of accomplishment. Breaking down goals into achievable steps can maintain a steady flow of this neurotransmitter.
Nutrient-Rich Snacking: Consuming nutritious snacks that are rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates supports consistent energy levels and neurotransmitter production.
Incorporating Movement: Integrating physical activity into the work routine, such as exercising during breaks or using standing desks, can boost dopamine and endorphin levels. This, in turn, enhances mood and focus throughout the workday.
Overall, comprehending my neurotransmitters extends beyond science—it’s a journey toward self-awareness and self-care. It allows me to enhance my emotional well-being, cultivate mental strength, and emphasize overall holistic health. Ultimately, it’s about managing my internal chemical messengers to steer toward more satisfying and harmonious lives.
The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. Del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University. He wrote this reflection paper for his class on Integral Human Development. He can be reached at [email protected].
The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.