Florida’s Seniors

Order a surf and turf dinner. Fish have healthy Omega-3s and animal proteins are high in tryptophan, which triggers serotonin production.

Make them a homemade stir-fry or curry. Turmeric, a common ingredient in Indian cuisines, and the fiber from vegetables often found in those dishes both regulate serotonin.

Blast the music and have a dance party in the car. There are some laughable videos on Youtube to inspire your own little dance party. Don’t hold back, though; challenge your loved one to bust a move wherever you are!

Stretch it out. Whether you opt for a yoga class or your own living room, deep stretching releases the tightness in muscles that is caused by stress, and it also promotes healthy blood circulation.

Cheer them up with word associations. Say words like “amused” or “joy” and have them say five more words that come to mind. Studies show that this use of “priming” will eventually cause the person to feel the words and emotions they are naming.

Go on a 20-minute walk with them. Even if it’s an overcast day, the combination of fresh air, nature and sunshine will still boost vitamin D and serotonin levels.

Your problems are my problems, so let’s get through them together.

Your smiles make everyone feel better, so now we’re returning the favor by smiling for you.

When you are alone and sad, call me, we can talk for hours ’til you feel better.

You’re only down not out, so keep your chin up and remember, it’ll get better from here.