Dopamine

Dopamine is a chemical messenger in the brain that plays a key role in regulating mood, motivation, reward, and movement. It is released when we experience pleasurable activities like eating, exercising, or achieving goals, reinforcing those behaviors. Dopamine also affects focus and learning by helping the brain prioritize important signals. Imbalances can be linked to conditions such as depression, addiction, and Parkinson's disease. Essentially, dopamine helps us feel motivated, achieve a sense of satisfaction, and coordinate smooth muscle activity, making it vital for both mental and physical functioning.