Are you happy right now? What does happiness feel like? Today, let's talk about what happens in our bodies when humans feel happy. Serotonin is likened to a creation of milk (in the brain) and honey (in the gut). Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in our happiness and sense of stability. It is mainly produced in the brain but also in the gut. Serotonin is involved in regulating mood, sleep, and emotional management, and a deficiency can lead to symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Therefore, maintaining the appropriate level of serotonin allows us to continue experiencing happiness. Milk & honey (the brain and the gut) constantly exchange information through the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems, affecting both physical and mental health. What comes to mind when you hear milk & honey? A sweet, happy drink in a cup... Neither is quite the same without the other. Serotonin, the substance of happiness, is formed when these two come together.

In contrast to serotonin, stress can be likened to gold while serotonin is like silver. Stress has a powerful impact on our bodies and minds. Therefore, it is gold. Chronic stress over a long period of time can lead to decreased immune function, increased inflammation, hormonal imbalance, and potentially serious health problems. Moreover, stress affects the gut environment, disrupting the balance between good and bad bacteria and worsening the function of the digestive organs.

However, because we are aware of stress, we can recognise serotonin better. The relationship between these two is like that of gold and silver, in opposition yet correlating with each other. To maintain the health of the brain and gut, it is important to understand what causes stress, promote the proper production of serotonin, and maintain a healthy gut environment. Specific improvement methods include:

Balanced diet: to support a healthy gut environment, actively consume dietary fibre and fermented foods, and choose foods containing probiotics and prebiotics. The gut flora, often referred to as "the garden of the gut," plays a vital role in the interaction with the brain, being involved in the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, regulation of the immune system, and control of inflammation. The gut flora is truly like a bouquet of flowers brought in during a visit, uplifting us.

Stress management: first, many people today have a weak ability to perceive stress itself. It is important to analyse what causes stress and find appropriate coping strategies when feeling stressed. Being among many people may be exacerbating your stress. Create alone time for relaxation through activities like yoga and breathing exercises.

Moderate exercise: exercise reduces stress by suppressing the activity of nerves that perceive stress, leading to a relaxed state. Furthermore, it increases serotonin secretion, helping to balance the mind. Moreover, moving the body means moving the brain, which also contributes to improving the gut environment. Aerobic exercise suppresses the secretion of stress hormones and brings relaxation. Strength training stimulates the nervous system, balances neurotransmitters, and reduces anxiety and stress. Combining aerobic exercise and strength training is recommended for balancing both mind and body.

Sleep: sleep deprivation exacerbates stress. Aim for a total of 6-8 hours of sleep per day. The quality of sleep is also important. At least 30 minutes before going to bed, avoid blue light from smartphones, etc. Reading or studying for a qualification exam slowly can be good. There are many ways to improve sleep quality, such as adjusting room lighting, using scented items, and preparing comfortable bedding, so try incorporating them gradually from what you can do.

By practising these methods, you can reduce stress and balance serotonin. The brain and the gut are closely related to our health and happiness, as evidenced by serotonin. By reducing stress and adopting balanced lifestyle habits, you can support the health of both the brain and the gut, promoting overall mental and physical well-being.

Furthermore, when serotonin levels are satisfied, the next happiness chemical, oxytocin, is released. This oxytocin contributes to feelings of happiness in relationships. When oxytocin levels are met, endorphins, another happiness chemical, are released, which are linked to feelings of accomplishment in work and overall happiness.