23 APR 2021_Thought of the Day_CH Kim

Hello Everyone, This is Chaplain Sung Kim. I am Deputy CMD CH in the 63d Readiness Division. I pray you are well.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood, but it also helps regulate other functions in your body like digestion, sleep and bone health. When it comes to happiness and how you feel every day, serotonin is important for reducing depression and regulating anxiety

Serotonin is a chemical messenger that affects many functions within the body and brain. One theory is that serotonin helps regulate anxiety and stress. Low serotonin is one of the factors that may contribute to depression, but people can take some steps to increase their serotonin levels.

There are natural ways to boost your happy hormones.

1. Music: Listening to music is a fabulous way to get a hit of happy hormones such as Serotonin and dopamine.
2. Eat carbs: Carbohydrates increase serotonin levels, which partly explains why we crave sweet, starchy foods when we are feeling down. For the best mood boost with the least negative impact, choose healthy, high-fibre sources of carbs such as dense whole-grain bread or quinoa.
3. Spend time with loved ones; Get a boost of oxytocin by doing pleasurable things such as spending time cuddling with your partner, your kids or your pet(s), rather than spending time on social media.
4. Stress relievers: Increase estrogen with stress-relieving activities such as yoga, meditation, taking a hot bath — or whatever works for you.
5. Exercise: Exercise has a substantial effect on the brain and body, both in the short- and long-term. Make exercise an essential part of your routine. Most of the evidence for exercise increasing serotonin comes from animal studies, though there are some examples in humans.
6. Light: Exposure to bright natural light may also affect serotonin levels.
7. Massage: Several studies have demonstrated the benefits of massage in boosting serotonin.
8. Remembering happy moments: All you need to do is remember positive events that have happened in your life. This simple act increases serotonin production.

Happiness can be hard to feel at times, so don’t think there is something wrong with you if you don’t feel it. We all go through phases, and some people are just naturally happier than others, so try to avoid comparing yourself with others. The truth is that happiness is here for you, and using the techniques above will allow you to feel more of it.

Today’s Prayer: May God give you... For every storm, a rainbow, For every tear, a smile, For every care, a promise, And a blessing in each trial. For every problem life sends, A faithful friend to share, For every sigh, a sweet song, And an answer for each prayer. From Traditional Irish Blessing.

Have a blessed day! Blood and Fire!

Here is the direct email and phone number for anyone requesting support from the 63d RD Chaplain office,

usarmy.usarc.63-rsc.list.chaplain-all-users@mail.mil

650-526-9668