Sharon Dyke, Hypnotherapist in Taunton
Sharon Dyke
Solution Focused Hypnotherapist in Taunton
T: 07766 250 113

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MY HAPPY PLACE

I talk a lot about happiness, but this bank holiday weekend reminded me why. I am lucky to have grandchildren now and spend as much time with them as possible. This weekend I had my two-year-old granddaughter stay with me and then spent the bank holiday Monday with her and her four-month-old brother. Why am I telling you this? Well, it’s because when I’m with my grandchildren, that is my happy place.

Happiness is a complex emotional state influenced by various factors, including genetics, environment, and personal experiences. The brain has a reward system activated when we experience pleasure or happiness. This system is primarily regulated by the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in motivation, reward, and pleasure. When we engage in activities that bring us pleasure, such as spending time with our loved ones, our brain releases dopamine, which reinforces the behaviour and makes us want to do it again.

In addition to dopamine, neurotransmitters such as serotonin and endorphins regulate mood and emotions. Serotonin is often called the feel-good neurotransmitter because it helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep. Endorphins are natural painkillers released during exercise, laughter, and other enjoyable activities, contributing to happiness and well-being. Overall, the brain reward system and the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins play a critical role in our experience of happiness, so being that my Grandchildren are my happy place, I have said ill have them again next week, mum and dad are loving it, they get a well-deserved break, the children love it, they get spoiled, so everyone is happy

SPRING INTO HAPPINESS

This week I was reflecting on spring; why you may ask, well, Spring is a time of renewal, a season that brings with it longer days, warmer temperatures, and a burst of new life. Did you know that spring can also profoundly impact our brains?

Research has shown that the changing seasons can affect our moods, energy levels, and cognitive functioning; spring has been found to have several positive effects on our mental health. One of the most significant effects is the increase in sunlight exposure. As the days get longer, the sun shines brighter, and our bodies produce small vitamin D, linked to improved brain function and reduced root risk of depression. Some, like exposure, also trigger the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and feelings of happiness. In addition to increased sunlight exposure, spring also brings various sensory experiences that can stimulate our brains. The smell of fresh flowers and budding trees can evoke positive emotions and memories, while the sight of colourful blooms can be calming.
Spring also offers opportunities for outdoor activities, which have been shown to have numerous benefits for our brains. Exercise, particularly in natural environments, has been linked to improving cognitive function, reduced stress levels, and increased production of brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNF). This protein supports the growth and maintenance of neurons.

Finally, Spring can positively impact our social connections, which are crucial for mental health. As the weather improves, people tend to spend more time outside and engaging in activities with others, which can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. In solution-focused hypnotherapy, we encourage clients to focus on the three Ps: positive thinking, positive interaction, and positive activity. So get outside, soak up some sun, and enjoy all that spring offers. 

Sharon Dyke, Solution Focused Hypnotherapist in Taunton
07766 250 113
Sharon Dyke HPD, CBT (Hyp), SFBT (Hyp), SFBT Sup (Hyp), HG Dip, Cert Ed.

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I’m a highly qualified Solution Focused Hypnotherapist & Solution Focused Supervisor for Hypnotherapists and I’m here to help. If you’d like to discuss how I can help you, then please get in touch with me, and I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Sharon