Daily activities to create Emotional Balance

We already have a lot of daily habits that can help in increasing the production of happy hormones in our body. But because of our busy and evolving lifestyle, we sometimes forget to incorporate these simple activities, resulting in increased level of stress and frustration.

All we need is, to bring a little awareness to these everyday activities and understand the benefits they have on our mind and body and as a result help us in creating a better life.

Daily activities that help in creating emotional balance

1. Daily Prayer/Gratitude List - The very popular Gratitude List that we are advised to make in the morning is nothing more than a prayer. Ideally, the first step of prayer is to be thankful for our blessings. It is this feeling of gratitude, that is said to help in the production of serotonin as it helps in reminding us of the good experiences we have had.

We are so used to being stressed about our future and so guilty remembering our past, that we often forget to count our blessings. Rather than creating stress in your body, balance out your hormones by giving thanks first thing in the morning.

2. Physical Activities - Many people are now getting increasingly aware of the benefits of exercise. It's not only useful in keeping your body fit and healthy, but it is also helpful in keeping your mind fit by producing more endorphins. When you spend time indulging in a physical activity, be it, walking, doing yoga or going to the gym, your mind is signalling the production of endorphins. These hormones play a big factor in relieving your body of stress and fatigue, and as a result making you feel more fresh and active.

3. Hugs - We all love to hug! This is not just an expression of our fondness for a person but it also helps in the production of oxytocin in our body. Whenever you feel love towards a person, your body starts to actively produce this hormone which helps the body to move into a more positive emotion and making you feel more happy.

4. Sun bathing - During winters, we all love to sit in the sunshine, it's not just to keep the body temperature warm but also to signal the brain to produce serotonin. Even though most of us have heaters or warmers in our homes and offices, yet, we run out if we see a tiniest bit of sun in winters. This is because, the body is signalling it's need for a serotonin boost. Don't deny your body a little sun but ofcourse use SPF and make both your mind and body happy.

5. Laughter - Ever see this group of people sitting in a park and laughing their heads off? Laughter is the easiest way to communicate with your body, to help boost the endorphin production. In case you feel lazy to go outside and get some exercise, make sure to set aside some time to laugh! Try not to watch stressful things before sleeping, watch your favourite comedy show or hang out with your friends and get some laughs out of your system and become more emotionally balanced.

6. Celebrations/Festivals - Wonder why we celebrate so many tiny festivals? Celebrations and festivals not only make us grateful for our blessings but also give us a dopamine kick by positively reinforcing our minds for our wins. Don't let the small traditions and festivals die-out due to lack of time, but go all out and positively reinforce your mind for your blessings and triumphs. Celebrate that little improvement in your exam results, celebrate the completion of that project, even celebrate yourself for keeping calm in a stressful situation. It's important to praise and celebrate yourself for a healthier mind.

7. Food - There are different foods that are linked with the production of various chemicals in the body. Be mindful of the food that you consume and you will automatically be supporting your body to produce the hormones that keep you in a balanced mood. For example, spinach, milk, eggs, nuts and seeds are all said to increase serotonin production whereas dark chocolate is said to help in a production of endorphins.

8. Aesthetics - Much like food, various smells are associated with the production of different hormones in the body. For example, vanilla and lavender are said to help signal the brain in endorphin production.

Don't just stick to this list but understand your own body and it's moods. Bring awareness to your daily activities and become more mindful of what little things give you joy. Pursue those joyful habits and keep improving your communication with your body. The more mind control you have over your body, the healthier you will be.

Being conscious of yourself is all that it takes to be mentally, emotionally and physically fit.