The battle of dopamine vs serotonin: How to help your team unplug this summer

1. Dopamine vs serotonin: the science of our well-being

Many of us have felt how each notification or urgent email activates us immediately, but at the cost of accumulated fatigue. Understanding these two neurotransmitters helps us design precise actions:

• Dopamine: neurotransmitter of immediate reward. Every "like" on social media, every email responded to instantly gives us a little boost that, when it becomes a habit, makes it difficult to disconnect.

• Serotonin: long-term well-being molecule, associated with calm, emotional stability, and mental health. It is released through moderate exercise, sunlight, and relaxation practices.

2. Corporate challenges to disconnect in summer

Before proposing solutions, it is worth recognizing the obstacles that hinder summer disconnection:

• Culture of urgency: "immediate response" is rewarded and pausing is seen as a lack of commitment.

• Poorly managed hybrid model: home and office merge, leading to a loss of disconnection.

• Lack of well-being spaces: few organizations have areas dedicated to relaxation.

• Occasional programs: one-off workshops do not change behaviors if they are not integrated into daily life.

3. Why is it important for companies to understand this biochemical battle?

For those who lead teams, translating these concepts into strategies is not a luxury; it is a business necessity. By fostering serotonin instead of chronic dopamine:

• Higher talent retention: cared-for employees stay longer and reduce recruitment costs.

• Increased productivity: rested teams complete projects with greater efficiency and quality.

• Better organizational climate: an environment that promotes calm and connection improves engagement and collaboration.

• Strengthened employer brand: companies that prioritize well-being attract high-level candidates.

4. Three strategies to promote corporate serotonin this summer

To make this change tangible, start with simple but consistent actions.

a) Design "Dopamine-Free Zones": When we block free moments from distractions, we allow the mind to reset:

• Notification-free calendars: daily blocks (e.g., 2–3 p.m.) where everything is silenced.

• “Digital Disconnection” campaigns: guides and monthly challenges to turn off notifications after working hours.

b) Continuous well-being programs: A single talk is not enough: well-being must be part of the organization's rhythm:

• Summer corporate retreats: 1–2 day outings in natural settings with mindfulness sessions, biohacking, and outdoor activities, keeping devices away.

• Weekly guided relaxation sessions: 15 minutes of meditation or group breathing breaks to create a habit.

c) Recharge spaces in the office: Creating calm corners within the same workspace sends a clear message of care:

• Natural light corners: ergonomic chairs near windows with essential oil diffusers.

• Express chair massages: Zen to Go professionals offer 10, 15, or 20 minutes of muscle relief during the workday.

4. Measurement and follow-up: key to success

1. Specific summer climate surveys: Add questions about disconnection and emotional well-being to your quarterly surveys.

2. Indicators of space and program usage: Measure how many employees participate in retreats, meditation sessions, or pause massages.

3. Analysis of absenteeism and productivity: Compare turnover data, stress-related absences, and project delivery before and after implementing summer strategies.

These data will not only justify the investment in well-being, but will also allow you to adjust in real time and maintain momentum beyond the summer season.

At Zen to Go we believe in the power of tangible actions to generate corporate serotonin. That is why we offer:

• Chair massages and desk-side treatments, to relieve tension and revitalize the team without interrupting the workday.

• Full sessions on massage beds, both in offices and at your employees' homes, perfect for recharging energy during the summer.

Our solutions easily integrate with your HR programs, reinforcing the "Dopamine-Free Zones" and recharge spaces that your team needs.

This summer, turn the "biochemical battle" into your ally. Design policies that prioritize serotonin and watch your team return renewed and motivated.