Ever heard of the word ‘Love Hormone’, I guess you are as surprised as I was few months back when I discovered Oxytocin is also known as the ‘Love Hormone’.
This love hormone is displayed during labor, child-bonding and breastfeeding. It is also connected with empathy, relaxation, trust, sexual activity, and relationship-building.
What is Oxytocin the ‘Love Hormone’
Well, Oxytocin is a hormone and a neurotransmitter (what is a neurotransmitter?) According the QueensLand University, neurotransmitters are usually referred to as the body’s chemical messengers. They are the molecules used by the nervous system to transmit messages between neurons, or from neurons to muscles.
Study shows thats Hormones are chemicals synthesized and produced by the specialized glands to control and regulate the activity of certain cells and organs. These specialized glands are known as endocrine glands.
Hence, Oxytocin is both a hormone and a neurotransmitter.
Why is it Called the ‘Love Hormone’
Oxytocin is often called the famous love hormone because it is responsible for some of the positive emotions you feel during attraction and sexual desire.
A research carried out In 2012, reported that people in the first early stage of romantic relationships are seen to possess higher levels of oxytocin, compared with non-attached single people. These levels are stable for at least 6 months.
Also, sexual activity has been found to stimulate the release of oxytocin, and it seems to have a role in erection and orgasm.
Although, reasons for this is not yet fully understood, but, in women, it could be that the increased uterine motility may help sperm to reach their destination. Some research have proposed a correlation between the concentration of oxytocin and the intensity of orgasm.
In Relationships between spouses; cuddling, kissing, hugging and sexual intimacy can all trigger oxytocin production, which can strengthen bonds between adults, too.
Another 2013 research summarized all of oxytocin’s possible relationship-enhancing effects. Some of these include:
- belief
- admiring
- empathy
- positive relationship memories
- trust
- optimism
- faithfulness
- positive communication
- processing of bonding cues
Oxytocin and Parenting
Oxytocin plays an important role between both parents; mother and father. it is a key component in the bond between parent and infant.
In motherhood,
during child labor: at the start of labor, it helps the contraction process. After delivery, it helps the uterus return to its original size.
child bonding: studies has shown on the advantage of oxytocin on the mother-child bond. It was discovered that mothers with higher levels are more likely to engage in affectionate parenting behaviors, including:
- singing or speaking to baby in certain way
- some affectionate touch
- certain grooming and bathing behaviors
- frequent checking in on baby
Breast-feeding: When a baby claps on his/her mother’s breast, the baby triggers a release of oxytocin. This signals the body to let down milk for the baby.
In Fathers, One recent study showed that there’s a specific types of interaction between father and baby which led to higher oxytocin levels. This consists of directing the baby’s attention toward certain objects and encouraging the baby to explore.
How to Boost Your Oxytocin Level
You can boost your Oxytocin level by:
1. Showing Care to Someone;
Sharing your love and affection with the people who matters the most to you can help boost your level of oxytocin in a few ways:
Telling a friend or partner you love them can prompt a hug, hand squeeze, or kiss.
Letting someone know how much you appreciate them can increase prosocial feelings on both sides.
Sharing your feelings with a loved one often leads them to reply in kind.
2. Meditation and Self Love;
A daily practice of mindful meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve your mood, and help you feel more compassion toward yourself and others. These effects can go a long way toward increasing your sense of connection and bolstering your relationships with others
3. Listening To Music;
Music helps alleviate stress, anxiety and bad moods. It also enhance focus level and motivates an individual. A few small studies have found evidence to suggest music can help boost oxytocin levels in your body.
According to a 2009 Research, during a surgical heart operation, 20 open-heart surgery patients who listened to music while on bed rest had higher levels of Oxytocin and felt more relaxed than patients who didn’t listen to music.
In Conclusion:
While Oxytocin may be beneficial, it is not a cure to bad relationships, if have relationship issue you should book a session with a therapist around you.
