Key Neurotransmitters Involved in Mood Regulation

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers within the brain that are essential in regulating mood, emotions, and overall mental health. These substances interact in complex ways to influence psychological well-being. Below are some of the principal neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22513-neurotransmitters

Serotonin (5-HT) – Often called the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, serotonin helps regulate mood, anxiety, sleep, appetite, and digestion. Low levels are linked to depression and anxiety disorders. Many antidepressants (SSRIs) work by increasing serotonin availability in the synaptic cleft, though the precise mechanism of their effect on mood is still being studied.
Dopamine (DA) – Associated with pleasure, motivation, and reward, dopamine reinforces positive behaviors and plays a key role in learning and movement. Low dopamine levels are linked to depression, lack of motivation, and anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure), while excessive dopamine activity in certain brain regions is associated with schizophrenia. It is also crucial for motor control, with deficiencies contributing to Parkinson’s disease.
Norepinephrine (NE) – A neurotransmitter and stress hormone that regulates alertness, energy, and the body’s “fight or flight” response. Low levels are associated with depression and fatigue, while high levels can contribute to anxiety, hypervigilance, and increased heart rate. Some antidepressants (SNRIs and tricyclics) work by increasing norepinephrine availability.
GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) – The primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA helps calm brain activity and reduce stress and anxiety. Low GABA levels are linked to anxiety disorders, insomnia, and epilepsy. Substances like benzodiazepines and alcohol enhance GABA’s effects, leading to their sedative and anti-anxiety properties.
Glutamate – The brain’s primary excitatory neurotransmitter, glutamate is essential for learning, memory, and cognitive function. However, excessive glutamate activity can be neurotoxic and is implicated in conditions such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Imbalances in glutamate are also associated with mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder.
Endorphins – These neuropeptides act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers, reducing stress and increasing pleasure. They are released during activities such as exercise (the “runner’s high”), laughter, and social bonding.
Acetylcholine (ACh) – Plays a key role in attention, learning, memory, and muscle movement. While its direct influence on mood is less studied, imbalances can affect cognitive function and emotional stability. A decline in acetylcholine is associated with neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. It also plays a role in REM sleep regulation.
Oxytocin – Known as the “love hormone,” oxytocin is crucial for bonding, trust, and social interactions. It reduces stress, promotes emotional connections, and enhances empathy. However, it also has a complex role in social behavior, as it may increase in-group favoritism and decrease trust toward outsiders.
Histamine – Though primarily known for its role in immune response and allergic reactions, histamine also acts as a neurotransmitter that regulates wakefulness, attention, and arousal. It plays a role in mood and cognitive function, with disruptions linked to conditions such as schizophrenia and sleep disorders.

Related Hormone: Cortisol While cortisol is not classified as a neurotransmitter, it is a stress hormone that plays a crucial role in influencing mood by interacting with serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and GABA. Secreted by the adrenal glands in response to stress, cortisol regulates metabolism, immune function, and blood sugar levels. However, chronic elevation of cortisol levels can contribute to anxiety, depression, and cognitive dysfunction, whereas reduced cortisol levels may result in fatigue and diminished motivation. Effective stress management through physical exercise, meditation, and adequate sleep is vital for maintaining balanced cortisol levels and overall mental health.

https://www.xcode.life/genes-and-health/what-neurotransmitter-causes-depression/

References:

Goodman & Gilman’s: The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13e. (2018). McGraw Hill Medical. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?bookid=2189§ionid=165936845&utm_source=chatgpt.com

Molecular Neuropharmacology: A Foundation for Clinical Neuroscience, 3E. (2015). McGraw Hill Medical. https://accessbiomedicalscience.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?bookid=1204§ionid=72648538&utm_source=chatgpt.com

McEwen, B. S. (2007). Physiology and neurobiology of stress and adaptation: central role of the brain. Physiological Reviews, 87(3), 873–904. https://doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00041.2006

I teach and offer lectures about holistic health, physical fitness, stress management, human behavior, meditation, phytotherapy (herbs), music for healing, self-massage (acupressure), Daoyin (yoga), qigong, tai chi, and baguazhang.

Please contact me if you, your business, organization, or group, might be interested in hosting me to speak on a wide spectrum of topics relative to better health, fitness, and well-being.

I look forward to further sharing more of my message by partnering with hospitals, wellness centers, VA centers, schools on all levels, businesses, and individuals who see the value in building a stronger nation through building a healthier population.

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

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Jim Moltzan

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Proverbs, Koans, Dichos and Chengyus

Proverbs, koans, dichos, and chengyu are all concise expressions of cultural wisdom, yet they each emerge from unique linguistic and philosophical traditions. Though they may differ in form and function, they share the universal purpose of offering insight into human nature, behavior, and values. Below is a comparison that highlights their origins and distinctions.

Proverbs

Cultural Origin: Found in virtually every language and culture worldwide, proverbs are traditional sayings passed down through generations.
Purpose: Proverbs offer practical wisdom, moral lessons, or general truths about life. They are often metaphorical and easily remembered.
Examples:
- “A stitch in time saves nine.”
- “Actions speak louder than words.”
- “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.”

Koans

Cultural Origin: Originating in Chinese Chan Buddhism and further developed in Japanese Zen Buddhism, koans are used as a tool for spiritual training.
Purpose: Koans are not meant to be logically solved. Instead, they challenge conventional reasoning and are used in meditation to provoke deep introspection and insight into the nature of self and reality.
Examples:
- “What is the sound of one hand clapping?”
- “What was your original face before your parents were born?”

Dichos

Cultural Origin: Common in the Spanish-speaking world, especially in Latin America and Spain, dichos are culturally rich sayings deeply embedded in Hispanic traditions.
Purpose: Like proverbs, dichos reflect cultural values and offer observations or advice about life, often with regional flavor or humor.
Examples:
- “No hay mal que por bien no venga”
  (There’s no bad from which good doesn’t come.)
- “El que mucho abarca, poco aprieta”
  (Jack of all trades, master of none.)

Chengyu

Cultural Origin: Chengyu (成语) are idiomatic expressions from classical Chinese literature. Most consist of four characters and are rooted in historical or mythological events.
Purpose: Chengyu condense complex narratives or moral lessons into brief, poetic form. They are often used in both written and spoken Chinese to convey layered meanings.
Examples:
- 卧薪尝胆 (wò xīn cháng dǎn) – “To lie on firewood and taste gall.”
  Refers to enduring hardship and humiliation in pursuit of a goal or vengeance.
- 画蛇添足 (huà shé tiān zú) – “To draw legs on a snake.”
  Means to ruin something by overdoing it.

In summary, proverbs are universal sayings found in many cultures. Koans are paradoxical statements used in Zen Buddhism for meditation and self-realization. Dichos are Spanish-language proverbs commonly used in Hispanic cultures. Chenyus are from Chinese culture and are idiomatic expressions or set phrases. While they all share common goal of conveying wisdom, they vary in their cultural origins and specific uses.

From a holistic health perspective, such wisdom serves not only the intellect but the mind-body-spirit connection. These expressions often guide emotional balance, mindful behavior, and personal growth, cornerstones of overall well-being. They offer reminders of resilience, compassion, humility, and inner strength, supporting wellness not just as a state of physical health, but as a dynamic, cultural, and spiritual journey.

Please contact me if you, your business, organization, or group, might be interested in hosting me to speak on a wide spectrum of topics relative to better health, fitness, and well-being.

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:

http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

My holistic health blog is available at:

https://mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com/

http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

Joy and the Heart in Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Double-Edged Emotion

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the human body is seen not merely as a collection of parts but as an interconnected system of energy, spirit, emotion, and function. One of the most profound concepts in TCM is that each major organ system is linked to a particular emotion. Among these, the Heart is associated with the season of summer and the emotion of Joy, a connection that is both beautiful and cautionary.

The Heart: Emperor of the Organ Systems

According to classical TCM, the Heart is not just a mechanical pump. It is the “Emperor” of the body’s organ systems. It governs the blood and blood vessels, controls the tongue, and most significantly, houses theShen the mind or spirit.

Heart Correspondences:

Element: Fire
Season: Summer
Color: Red
Flavor: Bitter
Tissue: Blood vessels
Sense Organ: Tongue
Emotion: Joy
Spirit: Shen (Mind/Spirit)

When the Heart is balanced, we experience mental clarity, restful sleep, appropriate excitement, and the capacity for deep connection with others.

Joy: The Nourishing Emotion

In appropriate doses, joy is a deeply nourishing force. Joy:

Soothes the nervous system and eases emotional tension
Promotes circulatory warmth and a sense of connection
Lifts the Shen, resulting in laughter, optimism, and creativity
It is vital to a healthy spiritual life

Joy reflects the expansive nature of the Fire element. Like the sun in summer, it radiates outward, illuminating relationships and animating the spirit.

When Joy Becomes Excessive

Paradoxically, the very emotion that nourishes the Heart can also harm it when excessive or poorly regulated. In TCM, “excess joy” includes:

Overexcitement, mania, or hysteria
Hyperactivity, constant stimulation
Overindulgence in pleasure or celebration

Physiological Consequences of Excess Joy:

Scattering of the Shen: The mind becomes ungrounded or erratic.
Heart Qi disruption: Can result in palpitations, insomnia, anxiety.
Mental-emotional disturbances: Talkativeness, inappropriate laughter, dream-disturbed sleep.

In modern terms, this may resemble bipolar mania, panic disorder, or emotional exhaustion. Prolonged joy without rest can overheat the system, especially in individuals already constitutionally “hot” or deficient in Yin.

The Importance of Emotional Balance in TCM

TCM recognizes no emotion as inherently negative. Emotions are considered physiological energies that must move freely, but in balance.

Emotion	Organ System	In Balance	In Excess
Joy	Heart	Warmth, clarity, connection	Scattered mind, insomnia, palpitations
Anger	Liver	Motivation, assertiveness	Irritability, tension, high blood pressure
Worry	Spleen	Compassion, thoughtfulness	Obsession, overthinking, fatigue
Grief	Lung	Reverence, release	Depression, breathlessness
Fear	Kidney	Caution, intuition	Panic, low back pain, adrenal fatigue

All five emotions (and their corresponding organ systems) influence one another. For example, chronic over-stimulation (excess joy) may weaken the Heart and eventually impact on the Kidneys (fear) or the Spleen (overthinking), leading to broader emotional and physical disharmony.

Recognizing Heart-Shen Imbalance

Signs that joy has turned from nourishing to disruptive may include:

Insomnia or difficulty falling asleep
Restlessness or excessive chatter
Palpitations or fluttering heartbeat
Red tip of the tongue (Heart Fire sign)
Vivid or disturbing dreams
Uncontrollable laughter or emotional outbursts

Practitioners aim to calm the Shen, clear Heart Fire, and nourish Heart Yin with techniques such as:

Acupuncture (e.g., Heart 7, Pericardium 6)
Herbal formulas (e.g., Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan)
Meditation and breathwork
Avoidance of overstimulation, especially in summer

A Holistic Reflection

In the West, joy is often pursued as a goal in itself. But TCM offers a subtle reminder: true wellness lies not in constant happiness but in dynamic balance. Joy, like fire, is beautiful but unchecked, it can burn.

Instead of constant excitement, TCM encourages us to cultivate:

Contentment
Presence
Inner peace

By anchoring our joy in stillness, we allow the Shen to rest peacefully in the Heart, just as the sun sets each day to allow the body to restore.

References

Kaptchuk, T. J. (2000). The Web That Has No Weaver: Understanding Chinese Medicine. McGraw-Hill.

Vanbuskirk, S. (2024, October 25). How emotions and organs are connected in traditional Chinese medicine. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/emotions-in-traditional-chinese-medicine-88196

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:

http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

My holistic health blog is available at:

http://www.mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com

http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

Rewiring the Human Nervous System: Adapting to a High-Voltage World

Rewiring the Nervous System: Ancient Practices for Modern Resilience

The human nervous system can be likened to an electrical system designed for specific voltage and amperage. Traditionally, it is assumed that most individuals are wired for 110 volts and 15 amps. However, contemporary society necessitates functioning at 220 volts and 30 amps, far exceeding the capacity originally intended by our biology. This increased “voltage” manifests as chronic stress, anxiety, burnout, and various physical ailments.

Nevertheless, just as an electrical system can be rewired to handle greater loads, the human nervous system can also be trained to adapt. Ancient practices such as martial arts, qigong, Dao Yin (Taoist yoga), yoga, and breathwork serve as effective interventions. These time-tested methods bridge the gap between the body’s inherent capabilities and the demands of modern life, enabling the nervous system to withstand higher levels of stress without succumbing to being overwhelmed.

The Role of Stance Training and Controlled Stress

With over 45 years of experience in martial arts, qigong, Dao Yin, and yoga, it has been observed that certain methods can effectively enhance the nervous system. One such method is stance training, which involves holding postures for specific durations while integrating breath control.

For beginners, basic stances are introduced in succession, initially without prolonged holds. As they progress, duration gradually increases. Once students can hold each stance for 30 seconds, controlled breathing is incorporated, typically three breaths per 30 seconds. With consistent practice, the duration is extended to one-minute holds, adjusting breath cycles to around four to six respirations per minute.

This approach serves multiple purposes. On a physical level, it strengthens the legs, core, and other stabilizing muscles. On a neurological level, it encourages the nervous system to adapt to discomfort, fostering resilience, endurance, and focus. On an energetic level, it stimulates the body’s internal pathways, potentially leading to enhanced vitality and internal balance.

The Science Behind the Training: The Anterior Midcingulate Cortex (aMCC)

While these practices have been in use for centuries, contemporary neuroscience provides insight into their effectiveness. A critical region of the brain implicated in resilience is the anterior midcingulate cortex (aMCC).

The aMCC is responsible for effortful control, emotional regulation, and persistence in the face of challenges. Research indicates that engaging in controlled stress, such as maintaining difficult stances, regulating breath, or training under discomfort, strengthens and enlarges the aMCC. Consequently, individuals who practice these methods may enhance their ability to manage stress more effectively, increase mental toughness, and maintain composure under pressure.

In essence, deliberate training can augment our capacity to handle life’s challenges, analogous to how lifting heavier weights strengthens muscles. This concept is consistent with the principle of progressive overload, which is well-established in strength training and equally applicable to the nervous system and mental resilience.

“Burning the Chong Mai” – The Energetic Dimension

Beyond the physical and neurological aspects, these practices have deep roots in Taoist and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). An important concept in energetic cultivation is “burning the Chong Mai.”

The Chong Mai (penetrating or thrusting Vessel) is one of the eight extraordinary meridians in TCM. It serves as a primary channel for deep energy reserves, influencing the body’s overall energy flow. When stance work and controlled breathing are practiced regularly, this meridian can be activated, which may allow for greater energy circulation through the other seven extraordinary vessels and the twelve main meridians.

This process can be compared to upgrading a power grid. By increasing the capacity of the Chong Mai, the entire energetic system can become more efficient, stable, and resilient. This observation might explain why long-term practitioners of qigong, Dao Yin, and martial arts often report higher energy levels, improved focus, and a significant sense of internal strength.

Resilience Through Discomfort: The Path to Transformation

The old adage “That which does not kill us makes us stronger” perfectly encapsulates the philosophy behind these training methods. Rather than avoiding stress, we use it as a tool for growth.

Physically, stance training builds strength, endurance, and structural integrity.
Mentally, breath control and effortful posture-holding train the nervous system to remain calm under pressure.
Neurologically, the aMCC adapts and strengthens, improving stress management and persistence.
Energetically, activating the Chong Mai and meridian system enhances internal power and resilience.

Instead of being overwhelmed by modern life’s “220 volts,” we can upgrade our own internal wiring, ensuring that we remain grounded, adaptive, and powerful in an ever-changing world.

For those seeking true strength, not just physically, but mentally and spiritually- these ancient methods offer a proven path to transformation. The keys are consistency, patience, and a willingness to embrace discomfort as a gateway to resilience.

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:

http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

My holistic health blog is available at:

https://mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com/

http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

The Fabled History of the 108 Tai Chi Wudang Long Form

World Tai Chi Day 2025 will be celebrated on April 26th. It’s a global event aimed at promoting health, wellness, and mindfulness through Tai Chi practice. Note that not all qigong is tai chi. However, all tai chi is qigong. A distinction that is good to understand when an individual chooses to make the commitment of time, energy and resources to learn a time-proven and legitimate lineage of these practices.

In 1314, at the age of 71, Chen Wangting (or Chen Sheng Feng, as sometimes referenced in folklore) is said to have moved to Wudang Mountain. Inspired by an intense encounter between a snake and a bird, he observed how softness could overcome hardness and how yielding could neutralize force. Combining the deadly precision of their movements with his extensive knowledge of military Longfist (Changquan) techniques, he began to refine his martial practice.

To this foundation, he integrated:

The dynamic interplay of Yin and Yang, expresses the natural balance of opposing forces.
The Five Element (Wu Xing) energy movements of ancient Taoists.
Ancient Dao Yin exercises promote internal health and longevity.
The environmental harmony of the I Ching emphasizes adaptability and flow.
The philosophy of the Tao Te Ching guides the practitioner toward a path of spiritual harmony and natural wisdom.

This synthesis evolved into what became known as Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan or “supreme ultimate fist”), later branching into the Five Element Tai Chi system.

Tai Chi can be likened to:

A doctor, as it promotes healing and internal balance.
A soldier, as it is an effective method of self-defense.
Vitality for the elderly and a focus for the young.

It is an exercise that strengthens the body, a meditation that calms the mind, a combat system that trains awareness and control, and a path of personal development that leads to deeper understanding. Tai Chi is like yoga in its pursuit of flexibility and balance, like dance in its graceful movements, and like self-defense in its strategic applications.

Ultimately, Tai Chi seeks to cultivate harmony with nature, instill discipline through spirituality, foster health and resilience in the individual, and align one’s being with the heavens. It is hundreds of years old, a living expression of the Dao, or the Way of Tai Chi Chuan.