Oxytocin, like endorphins or serotonin, is a type of hormone in your body that promotes positive feelings. It’s why it’s also called the love hormone.
Four happy hormones
Research has shown that increased oxytocin levels can lead to numerous benefits, including strengthened relationships, stress reduction, improved emotional well-being, and enhanced empathy and compassion. By understanding how to increase oxytocin levels naturally, you can harness its power to improve your overall well-being and connection with others.
Here are simple practices you can incorporate into your daily life to increase oxytocin levels:
1. Physical touch: Engage in physical touch, such as hugging, holding hands, or cuddling, as it stimulates oxytocin release. Make an effort to connect with loved ones through touch regularly including your fur babies.
2. Express gratitude: Expressing gratitude and receiving expressions of gratitude can increase oxytocin levels. Take a moment each day to reflect on what you are grateful for and share your appreciation with others. Consider doing a Gratitude Journal and write down ten things you are thankful for each day.
3. Acts of kindness: Performing acts of kindness, whether big or small, releases oxytocin and promotes connection with others. Be kind, help others if you can, or simply be there for someone in need.
4. Socialize: Spend time with friends, family, and loved ones in meaningful social interactions. Make an effort to nurture your relationships and engage in activities that foster connection.
5. Hug a tree: Clinical psychologist and Hug Therapy author Dr. Stone Kraushaar suggests hugging a tree as a powerful way to connect and release negativity. He recommends staying in a hug for at least 21 seconds.
6. Meditation and deep breathing: Dedicate a few minutes each day to practices like meditation and deep breathing, which promote relaxation and well-being.
Here’s a chanting meditation that you can do to up the oxytocin
Sit in Easy Pose or chair with a straight spine. Bring the hands, palms up, in front of the body about one inch above the navel. Rest the right hand in the palm of the left hand. Extend the thumbs and press the thumb tips together. Focus your eyes at the tip of the nose. Inhale and chant the mantra Sat Naam Sat Naam Sat Naam Sat Naam Sat Naam Sat Naam Whaa-hay in a monotone as the breath is exhaled. Be sure to pronounce each word exactly and be sure to keep the rhythm exact. Each word gets one beat.
May this get the self-love you need to keep going, no matter the challenges along the way.
In loving kindness,
Rosan
