Written by Jennifer Cox LCPC
Getting your Daily D.O.S.E (Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, and Endorphins) consistently and as much as possible can help keep these 4 chemicals at a stable level – Leaving you feeling motivated, good, and confident. Since these 4 chemicals are so important, we will talk about each of them separately – Today let’s talk Oxytocin.
Oxytocin is a hormone and neurotransmitter that is produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland.
It is a critical hormone that supports many functions across the body and has been linked to a range of psychological, behavioral, and physical processes.
Oxytocin is often referred to as the ‘love hormone’ due to the impact it has on human behaviors and social interactions, including interpersonal connections, sexual arousal, romantic attachment, and parent-infant bonding.
It helps us form attachments with others by building and maintaining social connections by increasing feelings of trust, generosity, and empathy.
Researchers have also found that oxytocin can reduce anxiety and contribute to stress reduction.
By making positive lifestyle choices and engaging in activities that promote social connection, relaxation, and well-being, you can naturally boost your oxytocin levels and reap the many benefits associated with this important hormone.
Here are several natural ways to increase oxytocin:
- Practice yoga: Practicing yoga has been shown to increase oxytocin levels, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
- Spend quality time with loved ones: Engaging in activities with loved ones such as hugging, kissing, and holding hands can increase oxytocin levels. Spending time with people you care about and engaging in positive social interactions can also have a host of other mental health benefits.
- Get a massage: Massage therapy has been found to increase oxytocin levels and reduce stress and pain.
- Practice mindfulness meditation: Mindfulness meditation has been found to increase oxytocin levels. Regular meditation practice may be a promising natural way to increase oxytocin and promote feelings of well-being.
- Spend time in the sun: Vitamin D, which is produced when your skin is exposed to sunlight, may increase oxytocin levels. Spending time outside and getting regular sunlight can have numerous other physical and mental health benefits as well.
Overall, oxytocin is an important hormone that plays a crucial role in human behavior, social interaction, stress management, and reproductive health.
If you’re interested in learning more about oxytocin, you can check out sources below:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22618-oxytocin
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/275795
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-increase-oxytocin
https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/oxytocin-the-love-hormone
These practices above could help support healthy oxytocin levels, however, if you are feeling stuck, have loss of interest, or no motivation – We can help you with support, guidance, tools, and insight to help EMPOWER you to COPE and HEAL in order to move forward.
To book an appointment or have questions, please go here: https://echcounseling.com/contact/
Reach out today at info@echcounseling.com or 815-363-0864
