E-ISSN:2456-3110

Review Article

Happiness Hormones

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2025 Volume 10 Number 6 JUNE
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

Decoding Happiness: Happiness Hormones and Ayurvedic Perspectives on the Science of Well-Being

Acharya A1*, Kamath S2, Shetty N3, Verma S4, Sharma R5, BK Sevatkar6
DOI:10.21760/jaims.10.6.20

1* Achyut Acharya, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Roga Nidana Evam Vikriti Vigyana, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University (De novo), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.

2 Surekha Kamath, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Roga Nidana Evam Vikriti Vigyana, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University (De novo), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.

3 Namitha Shetty, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Roga Nidana Evam Vikriti Vigyana, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University (De novo), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.

4 Sudeeksha Verma, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Roga Nidana Evam Vikriti Vigyana, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University (De novo), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.

5 Reetu Sharma, Associate Professor, Department of Roga Nidana Evam Vikriti Vigyana, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University (De novo), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.

6 BK Sevatkar, Professor, Department of Roga Nidana Evam Vikriti Vigyana, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University (De novo), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.

Happiness, a deeply cherished human experience, emerges from a dynamic interplay of neurochemical, psychological, and spiritual factors. Modern neuroscience identifies key neurotransmitters - dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins - as central to emotional regulation and well-being. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a parallel perspective through the balance of Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas), emphasizing harmony between mind, body, and spirit. The alignment of scientific and Ayurvedic paradigms reveals striking similarities, such as the association of serotonin with Sattva, dopamine with Rajas, and endorphins with Kapha. Practices like meditation, mindful living, and dietary balance are shown to support the natural production of happiness hormones while promoting emotional resilience. Integrating these insights fosters a comprehensive and sustainable approach to mental health, rooted in both ancient wisdom and modern science.

Keywords: Happiness, Hormones, Happiness hormones, Doshas, Gunas

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Achyut Acharya, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Roga Nidana Evam Vikriti Vigyana, National Institute of Ayurveda, Deemed to be University (De novo), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.
Email: 		Acharya A, Kamath S, Shetty N, Verma S, Sharma R, BK Sevatkar, Decoding Happiness: Happiness Hormones and Ayurvedic Perspectives on the Science of Well-Being. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2025;10(6):144-148.
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https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/4449/

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2025-05-03 2025-05-24 2025-06-04 2025-06-14 2025-06-24
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© 2025 by Acharya A, Kamath S, Shetty N, Verma S, Sharma R, BK Sevatkar and Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

J Ayu Int Med Sci 2025;10(6)144
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Achyut A et al. Happiness Hormones and Ayurvedic Perspectives

Introduction

What is Happiness?

The million-dollar question. Happiness is an emotional state characterized by feelings of joy, satisfaction, and contentment. It’s often seen as the ultimate goal in life, but its definition can vary greatly from person to person. Some believe happiness is found in the moments of connection with loved ones, in achieving personal goals, or simply in experiencing life's simple pleasures. Others seek happiness through spirituality, helping others, or immersing themselves in creative pursuits.

Why Happiness?

Happiness might be the ultimate pursuit because it encapsulates what it means to live a fulfilling life. When you're happy, everything in life seems a little bit brighter, and the tough times become more bearable. It’s the state we all chase after because it feels so good to be content, joyful, and at peace.

Happiness is essential because it gives life meaning and purpose. It motivates people to pursue goals, build relationships, and seek out experiences that bring joy. In many ways, happiness acts as a barometer for overall well-being. It’s not just a fleeting emotion; it’s a crucial part of living a balanced, fulfilling life.

Factors Influencing Happiness

Several factors can influence happiness:

  • Genetics: Your natural disposition plays a role, but it’s not the whole story.
  • Life Circumstances: Health, relationships, and financial stability affect happiness.
  • Positive Thinking: A mindset of gratitude and optimism can boost happiness.
  • Social Connections: Strong, healthy relationships and a sense of community are crucial.
  • Purpose and Meaning: Having a sense of direction and doing things that matter to you.

Scientific origin of happiness

The scientific study of happiness, often explored under the fields of psychology and neuroscience, aims to understand what makes people happy and how happiness affects the brain and body.

Key Points in the Scientific Study of Happiness:

  • Positive Psychology: Founded by Martin Seligman, this branch of psychology focuses on positive emotions, strengths, and factors that contribute to a fulfilling life.[1]
  • Neuroscience of Happiness: Researchers study brain regions like the prefrontal cortex and amygdala to understand how they regulate emotions. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins play a significant role.[2-5]
  • Hormonal Influence: Hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, often referred to as "happiness hormones," impact our feelings of happiness and well-being.[3,5]
  • Genetics: Some studies suggest that genetic predisposition can influence baseline levels of happiness, though it’s not the sole factor.
  • Environmental and Social Factors: Relationships, social connections, and life circumstances also heavily influence happiness levels.

These areas of study help us understand that while genetics and brain chemistry play a role, external factors and personal mindset are equally important in shaping happiness. This scientific perspective aligns with holistic approaches like Ayurveda, which integrate mind, body, and spirit for overall well-being.

In Ayurvedic, the concept of Happiness is fundamental to comprehending holistic health and wellbeing. The equilibrium of mental, physical, and spiritual aspects is deemed essential for maintaining homeostasis and preventing the onset of disease.

Contemporary scientific research has identified several neurotransmitters and hormones colloquially referred to as "Happiness Hormones" which play a pivotal role in the regulation of mood and emotional states. These neurochemicals include dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins.[2-5]

This article endeavours to elucidate the correlation between these neurobiological substances and its Ayurvedic corelation.

The integration of ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern neurobiological understanding present an opportunity to explore a more comprehensive approach to mental health and emotional well-being.


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This exploration aims to bridge the gap between two distinct paradigms of health and wellness, potentially offering a more subtle and holistic approach to achieving mental and emotional balance. Through this analysis, we seek to contribute to the ongoing dialogue between traditional healing systems and modern medical science, fostering a more integrated understanding of human psychology and physiology.

Dopamine:

Dopamine, often called the "reward" hormone, is a critical neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a central role in regulating pleasure, motivation, and reward. Dopamine is released in response to rewarding stimuli. Dopamine drives motivation by signalling the anticipation of reward. It helps individuals pursue goals, engage in activities and complete tasks by providing the mental energy and focus needed to achieve desired outcomes.[2]

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Oxytocin:

Often called the "love" hormone plays crucial role in various aspects of human behaviour and physiology. Oxytocin is involved in social bonding, sexual reproduction, childbirth. It promotes feelings of trust, empathy and bonding.[3]

Oxytocin is fundamental in forming and maintaining social connections. Oxytocin is released during arousal and orgasm during sexual activity, it contributes to the emotional bonding between partners. Oxytocin plays pivotal role in childbirth and lactation.

Serotonin:

Serotonin is often dubbed as the feel-good hormone, plays a pivotal role in various physiological processes. Its primary functions include mood regulation, where it helps alleviate anxiety and depression, and influencing sleep patterns by regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Additionally, serotonin is essential for digestive health, aiding in bowel movements and function.[4]

Endorphins:

Endorphins are neurotransmitters produced by the CNS and the pituitary gland and are often referred to as the body's natural painkillers because they help alleviate pain and induce feeling of euphoria and well-being.[5]

Happiness comes from inside.

Yoga Shastra describes process of happiness as Yoga Chiitavritti Nirodha. When one controls the Chitta Happiness follows from within. Yama and Niyama are described to establish a healthy and happy life. Yama and Niyama are methods to regulate DOSE. Yama and Niyama forms reflexes which continues the secretion of DOSE and maintenance of Happiness.[6]

Duality exists in nature of Universe. Dwanda (Duality) is present in all facets of life. If there is Anger then there is Compassion also, if there is Love then there is also Hate. Love helps in secretion of Oxytocin which in turn helps to increase Happiness while Hate decreases the secretion of Oxytocin and increased production of Cortisol which decreases one's happiness. Similarly Anger decreases Oxytocin resulting in decrease of Happiness and Compassion increases Oxytocin resulting increase of Happiness.

Factors affecting Happiness in Ayurveda.

1. Satva, Raja and Tama
2. The Guna Triangle
3. Aahar and Vihara
4. Prakriti

Manas (Human Mind) is Tri-Gunatmaka i.e. Satva Raja and Tama. In Ayurveda it is Tri-Doshatmaka i.e., Vataj, Pittaja and Kahpaja. In Literature it is defined as Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwar. In Contemporary Science it is seen as Proton, Electron and Neutron.

We describe these factors as prime factors in maintaining Homeostasis and in turn to maintain Happiness.[7,8]

Correlation with Happiness Hormones:

Serotonin and Satva:

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and Happiness. In Ayurveda a balanced state of mind i.e., Satva is associated with clarity, contentment and mental peace.


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Practices like meditation, sattvic diet and positive thinking can enhance serotonin levels, promoting mental balance and serenity.[9]

Dopamine and Rajas:

Dopamine is involved in reward, motivation and pleasure. In Ayurveda, the Rajas Guna is characterised by activity, dynamism and desire. While Rajas can drive motivation and goal - directed behaviour, excessive Rajas can lead to restlessness and anxiety similarly Dopamine secretion also helps in goal setting and completion of work. Excessive secretion of Dopamine results in Lethargy or Restlessness and anxiety.

Oxytocin:

Oxytocin is the Love Hormone, enhancing bonding and trust. Ayurveda places great importance on healthy relationships and social bonding for mental well-being.

Endorphins and Mind

It acts as natural pain killers and mood enhancers. Ayurveda recognizes the interconnection between the mind and body and advocates for holistic practices to maintain this balance.

Physical activities like Yoga, Pranayama and regular exercise release endorphins reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being.[7]

The balance of Dosha (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) is essential for maintaining health. Each Dosha has a unique influence on the body and mind and their balance is crucial for emotional well-being.

Vata is associated with movement and creativity, While Pitta is associated with metabolism and transformation, Similarly, Kapha is associated with structure and stability.[10] Vata promote the release of serotonin and dopamine., Pitta enhances the production of serotonin and oxytocin., Kapha boost endorphin levels.

Conclusion

Understanding the Happiness Hormones and its Ayurvedic Perspective highlights the importance of Balancing the Dosha and Cultivating a harmonious mind. By integrating Ayurvedic practices such as Aahar and Vihar and Mindfulness techniques can enhance individuals' well-being and promote the natural production of Happiness Hormones.

This holistic approach not only supports mental health but also foster overall harmony and balance in life.

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