Whether you're enjoying the company of a loved one, indulging in some self-pampering, or basking in the affection of your pets, Valentine’s Day is a time for celebrating all kinds of love and warm feelings.

But did you know that those gooey, heart-warming emotions come from your body’s “feel-good” hormones?

Hormones like dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin and endorphins are your body’s natural happiness boosters and the best part?

You don’t need grand gestures or expensive gifts to activate them. You can spark joy and improve your mood with simple, science-backed activities that fit right into your lifestyle.

Let’s explore some fun, easy-to-do happiness hacks to make you feel amazing this Valentine’s Day and every day after!

Pets equal pure joy

Pets are unconditional love in its purest form, and spending time with them is a surefire way to boost your oxytocin levels the “love hormone.Picture: Andres Ayrton/Pexels

If you’re lucky enough to have a furry friend, you already know the happiness they bring. Pets are unconditional love in its purest form, and spending time with them is a sure-fire way to boost your oxytocin levels, which is associated with the “love hormone”.

As one Reddit user put it: “No matter what my head is spinning around, a trip to the park with my dogs snaps me into the present and puts joy in my heart and a smile on my face.”

Whether it’s a walk in your local park or cuddling up on the couch, your pets can help you feel grounded and loved. Plus, their antics are a constant source of laughter, which releases dopamine and endorphins.

Staycation bliss

Sometimes, the best way to recharge is by doing absolutely nothing and that’s okay. Taking time off to rest, read and relax at home can do wonders for your mental health.

Sometimes, the best way to recharge is by doing absolutely nothing and that’s okay! Picture: Kate Andreeshcheva/pexels

One Reddit user shared their staycation experience: “I skipped out on a trip and spent 4 days at home reading, gaming, and just breathing. It felt so good!”

Resting is a great way to reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase serotonin, especially if you spend some of that time outdoors in the sunshine.

Laugh until your belly hurts

They say laughter is the best medicine, and science agrees. Laughing releases dopamine and endorphins, which help relieve stress and improve your mood.

Laughing releases dopamine and endorphins, which help relieve stress and improve your mood. Picture: ELEVATE/pexels

Catch up with a friend who always cracks you up, binge-watch a Trevor Noah special, or head to a comedy show.

South Africans love a good laugh and local comedians like Tumi Morake or Kagiso Lediga are guaranteed to leave you in stitches.

Can’t catch a show? Watch animal videos on YouTube. Laughter doesn’t have to be complicated!

Cook (and share) a delicious meal

Cooking isn’t just about eating it’s an activity that can activate multiple happiness hormones.

Preparing a meal you love releases dopamine, especially when you feel that sense of accomplishment. Sharing the meal with someone special can increase oxytocin while enjoying the food triggers endorphins.

Sharing the meal with someone special can increase oxytocin while enjoying the food triggers endorphins. Picture: RF._.studio/Pexels

Pro tip: Make it a group activity! Cooking together is a meaningful way to bond with loved ones.

Dance like no one’s watching

Movement is magic for your mood. Exercise releases endorphins, giving you that euphoric “runner’s high”.

But you don’t need to hit the gym to reap the benefits. Dancing around your living room or joining a Zumba class can be just as effective.

Movement is magic for your mood. Picture: Marlon Schmeiski /Pexels

Put on some amapiano or gqom and get your groove on. Dance your worries away!

Sunshine and serotonin

South Africa’s sunny weather is one of its greatest gifts. Spending time outdoors in the sun boosts serotonin, the hormone that helps you feel calm and happy.

Take a morning walk, go for a hike, or just enjoy your coffee outside. And don’t forget the sunscreen, your skin will thank you.

Massage the stress away

If you’ve been feeling tense, a massage might be just what you need. Massages trigger the release of all four feel-good hormones: dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins. It’s the ultimate happiness hack.

Try a self-massage with essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus for a calming experience.

Music to your ears

Music has a unique way of lifting our spirits. Listening to your favourite tunes can increase dopamine while singing or playing an instrument can release endorphins.

Explore local genres like kwaito or Afro-jazz. Music that resonates with your culture can enhance feelings of connection and joy.

Gratitude is the best attitude

Practising gratitude is one of the simplest ways to boost serotonin. Reflecting on the things you’re thankful for even the small ones can shift your mindset and improve your mood.

Pro tip: Start a gratitude journal or share a heartfelt “thank you” with someone who’s made a difference in your life.

Share the love

Happiness is contagious. Acts of kindness, like helping a friend or volunteering, release oxytocin and create a sense of connection.

Happiness doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether it’s dancing to your favourite song, cuddling your pet or enjoying a staycation, there are plenty of simple ways to naturally boost your feel-good hormones.

This Valentine’s Day, focus on activities that bring you joy, connection and meaning. After all, happiness is about the little things so go ahead, embrace them.