"May, more than any other month of the year, wants us to feel most alive." - Fennel Hudson.
Hallelujah! The sun is shining, and it’s warm! It’s felt like a forever winter in Utah.
However, it’s also been a blessing. We received so much snow that had it warmed up in April, like it normally does; Utah would have flooded off the map. Ok, maybe not quite so dramatic. However, the flooding could have been worse had the weather warmed up earlier than normal.
As we come out of winter, Spring is like a restart. It’s a rebirth. It’s a time to look at your life and see what’s working and what’s not. Commit to making changes physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Start with one thing. It only takes making a one percent change to grow and make a difference. The change may be small, but done consistently, it can create something different and better. That is if you choose it.
One of the first steps in making a change in life is by feeding the brain. What feeds the brain? Amino Acids.
Amino acids are important building blocks in our bodies that help us grow and stay healthy. Did you know that some amino acids can also help our brains make important chemicals that affect our moods and feelings? These chemicals are called dopamine, serotonin, GABA, and endorphins. When our brains have enough of these chemicals, we feel happy and relaxed.
Dopamine is important for motivation and focus. Amino acids called tyrosine and phenylalanine can help our brains make more dopamine.
Serotonin is important for mood and sleep. Amino acids called tryptophan and 5-HTP can help our brains make more serotonin.
GABA is important for relaxation and reducing anxiety. Amino acids called GABA, glutamine and taurine can help our brains make more GABA.
Endorphins are important for reducing pain and making us feel good. Amino acids called l-phenylalanine, d-phenylalanine (DLPA), and methionine can help our brains make more endorphins.
While amino acids can be helpful in raising these important chemicals in our brains, it is important to always talk to a doctor before taking any new supplements. They can help make sure it is safe and right for you.
Eating a healthy diet with plenty of protein and getting enough sleep and exercise can also help our brains make these important chemicals.
