MOHIVATE
Hosted by Dr. Mohi Sarawgee, a GP, MOHIvate is your doctor’s dose of heart and science — with just a touch of humour — because health and feeling good shouldn’t feel complicated. Each episode breaks down medicine and everyday science in a simple, thoughtful way, serving as a reminder that real health can still feel human. I hope you enjoy listening, learning, and carrying a little feel-good factor with you. Thank you for tuning in!
Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, personal medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your own doctor or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health, and never ignore or delay professional medical advice because of something you’ve heard here. The views expressed are my own and do not represent the views of any organizations or institutions I’m affiliated with.
MOHIVATE
4. The Science of Calm: Serotonin | The Quiet Rhythm Beneath the Noise
In this week’s episode of MOHIVATE, Dr. Mohi Sarawgee explores serotonin — the neurotransmitter and hormone of calm.
Not the molecule of fireworks and euphoria, but the quiet rhythm that keeps your mood steady beneath the noise.
She unpacks what serotonin really is, where it’s made, and how it shapes everything from mood and sleep to gut health and resilience. From the vagus nerve and the raphe nuclei to the role of light, tryptophan, and the microbiome, this episode dives deep into the real science behind what we often call the “happy hormone” — and what neuroscientists know as one of the brain’s most vital messengers.
Discover what shapes your inner chemistry and how to support serotonin naturally, featuring insights from neuroscience, psychology, and everyday life — plus a few smiles along the way.
Because understanding calm isn’t about clichés.
It’s about chemistry.
References for Reading:
- Yano JM, Yu K, Donaldson GP, et al. (2015). Indigenous bacteria from the gut microbiota regulate host serotonin biosynthesis. Cell, 161(2): 264–276.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2015.02.047 - Young SN. (2007). How to increase serotonin in the human brain without drugs. Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, 32(6): 394–399.
- The Lancet Psychiatry. (2015). Depression and the human gut microbiome. The Lancet Psychiatry, 2(4): 284.
- Park BJ, Tsunetsugu Y, Kasetani T, et al. (2010). The physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing): evidence from field experiments in 24 forests across Japan. Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine, 15(1): 18–26.
Just a gentle reminder: this episode is for information, education, and inspiration only. It’s not a substitute for your doctor’s advice. For any personal health concerns, always seek guidance from your doctor.