Oxytocin is often referred to as the “love hormone” or the “cuddle hormone”. It is a hormone that is made by the hypothalamus and secreted into the blood stream by the pituitary gland in the brain and can be released when bonding takes place. Oxytocin is typically activated by social interactions between two individuals or even between humans and animals.
Oxytocin In Women
In women, oxytocin plays an essential role in women when it comes to child birth. It is responsible for uterine contractions during labor and also helps in the bonding phase between a mother and child after birth. Oxytocin also promotes milk lactation for breastfeeding by moving the milk into the breast milk ducts. Interestingly, studies show that interacting with a baby can cause the baby’s own oxytocin levels to increase.1
Oxytocin In Men
For men, oxytocin does not play as big of role in their body as it does for women. However, it does help in bonding with others and it also is involved in the production of testosterone by the testes which leads to sperm production. So men, you too can benefit from healthy bonding with others.
How To Increase Oxytocin Levels Naturally?
There are many ways to increase the levels of the love hormone oxytocin within the body. One can increase levels by using a compounded oxytocin prescription or one can activate it naturally by experiencing social interactions. In this section we will focus on increase levels naturally by way of interacting with others. As mentioned above, social interaction plays a huge role in increasing oxytocin levels. In no particular order, here are some ways to improve oxytocin levels naturally.
8 Ways To Naturally Increase Oxytocin Levels
1. Make eye contact. Be mindful of the person you are talking to. For example, the next time you are on your electronic device and are having a conversation with someone, put the device down and look at the person while you are conversing with them.
2. Eat together. Sharing a meal with someone can help with the bonding experience. Number 10 comes into play here as a face to face discussion usually takes place over a meal. Remember the old saying, “A family who eats together, stays together”.
3. Give a gift. Being considerate of others and sharing is always a for sure way to increase oxytocin levels. Out of the blue, why don’t you try surprising someone with a give and see out they react?
4. Meditation. Calming the mind and body naturally increases oxytocin levels.
5. Go on a bike ride. Getting outdoors and breathing in the fresh air helps relax the body.
6. Give a hug. Probably one of the biggest ways to increase levels. The human touch has been proven to increase oxytocin levels. This is one way a mother and a newborn first interact and subsequently increase the bonding experience.
7. Pet an animal. Just like humans, animals also enjoy the human touch. Not only does the animal benefit but you can too.
8. Tell someone you love them. There is no better way to increase oxytocin levels than by telling someone you love them. Yes it might be a bit weird to tell your friends you love them but give it a try and see how they respond.
Articles
- What Is Oxytocin? – Everyday Health