1
" Go for good enough. Worrying is often triggered by wanting to make the perfect choice or by trying to maximize everything. When buying a used car, you want one that is cheap, reliable, safe, sexy, the right color, and fuel efficient. Unfortunately, no single option is likely to be the best in all those dimensions. If you try to have the best of everything, you’re likely to be paralyzed by indecision or dissatisfied with your choice. In fact, this kind of “maximizing” has been proven to increase depression. So don’t try to make the most amazing dinner; start out by just making a good dinner. Don’t try to be the perfect parent; just be a good one. Don’t try to be your happiest; just be happy. "
― Alex Korb , The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time
13
" With each little bit of exercise I did, each time I chose to move a little more, everything became easier. My brain was juicing up on all those good neurochemicals—all that serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine began making things happen. The BDNF was silently working away. As a result, not only did I have a bigger appetite, but food tasted better, and I wanted to eat healthier foods. I didn’t worry about things as much, and my sleep improved. I felt like I had more free time and even felt younger. Then exercise became more appealing, and slowly I became intrigued by the thought of a marathon. "
― Alex Korb , The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time
19
" Serotonin helps with impulse control, willpower, and resilience. Dopamine is important in enjoyment and habits. Norepinephrine modulates focus and concentration. Oxytocin is essential to close relationships. Other neurotransmitters are important too, like GABA (antianxiety), endorphins (elation and pain relief), and endocannabinoids (appetite and peacefulness). Other chemicals, like BDNF, help grow new neurons, and even proteins in the immune system play a role. "
― Alex Korb , The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time