BOOST YOUR MOOD: 5 EVERYDAY HABITS TO RAISE ENDORPHINS, KICK THE BLUES

HAVE you ever noticed how a good laugh, a sweaty workout, or even a warm hug can instantly lift your spirits? That's not just a happy coincidence; it's your body's incredible mind-body connection at work.

- VUYILE MADWANTSI

As someone who has spent years exploring the latest in health, wellness, and the science of happiness, I've seen first-hand how tiny changes in our daily lives can make a huge difference to our mental and physical health.

Let's dive into the world of endorphins, your body's very own mood boosters and discover simple, science-backed ways to tap into their power for a healthier, happier you.

The power of the mind-body connection is no longer just a feel-good cliché.

"We have an incredibly powerful mind-body connection that can influence us both positively and negatively," says Mark Fletcher, a Navy veteran and a mental health specialist with the WWP Talk programme.

"How we think can affect how we feel and behave. And how we behave can affect how we feel and think."

This interplay is reflected in how our bodies produce endorphins, nature's built-in stress busters. When harnessed, they can help us bounce back from stress, pain, and even the blues.

Think of endorphins as your body's cheerleaders. Scientifically, they're a group of hormones released by your brain in response to pain or stress, but also during moments of pleasure, like eating a chocolate, getting a massage, or laughing with friends.

The word "endorphin" actually combines "endogenous" (from within the body) and "morphine" (the powerful pain reliever).