There have been some distinct times in my life when I have felt very happy – gentle of heart. In discussion with some life long friends the other day I traced those times back to some major events; birth of children, connection with significant others and slower times in life when ‘being’ took priority over ‘doing’.
I then thought about a common theme that tied these events, and I came up with a hormone called oxytoxin. Sure enough my research into this hormone and neuropeptide proved my suspicion true. Oxytocin is labelled the “calm and connection hormone”.
This golden elixir named oxytocin, reduces stress, lowers blood pressure and increases positive social behaviours, our desire to connect. Oxytocin also develops our capacity to relax and restore, which is wonderful for those of us who may feel that our relaxation responses could be enhanced.
It is well known that women experience heightened levels of oxytocin in pregnancy, labour and when nursing a small child. However, it is not just a female hormone! Men too can experience heightened levels of oxytocin, and again, women in all situations and periods of life.
Touch and eye contact with another human being increase this calming and friendly hormone.
What I also found interesting was that a longitudinal study had found that parents now days are much less connected with their children. They may be in the same room as them, but their ability to give eye contact and human touch over time has been reduced by half. Perhaps this has to do with people being connected to a digital device constantly and having shorter attention spans from doing so?
So in lieu of this, here are some natural ways to increase oxytocin for all of us:
1. Eye-contact
2. Touch with another human being. Pets provide an increase, but human connection is superior.
3. Deep interaction and intimacy. Sex releases oxytocin.
4. Walking
5. Swimming in warm water or having a warm bath.
6. Physical exercise (cheers to good yoga!)
My New Year’s resolve is to be more gentle.
Oxytocin fosters openness and perhaps heightened intuition.
If there was one way I know intuitively to increase this hormone, it is to be more gentle.
Gentle on myself and gentle to those around me.
In this way, happy times abound.
Happy New Year to you.
Celia Roberts Bsc, AAYT, YA, ATMA.
The tawny frog mouth photo above was taken from our yoga studio verandah by nature photographer, Kate Prentice. Many of us watched the baby frog mouth’s journey unfold week after week at classes and retreats. It was a once in a life time opportunity.
Stunning Health Intensive.
NEW YEAR Yoga Intensive
January 1st, 2nd, 3rd 8am-11am
* Yoga therapy for stunning health,
* Personalised Ayurvedic nutrition,
* Heal our land,
* Digital nutrition,
* Silence.
Book for all 3 days or individually: https://celiaroberts.com.au/events/stunning-health-part-two/
Casuals welcome and teenagers also.
Teacher Trainers may attend at no charge. Please email to confirm your place.
Welcome Back! Classes 2015
https://celiaroberts.com.au/yoga-and-meditation-classes-brisbane/
YOGA TEACHER TRAINING 2015
A Path With Heart.
Join us http://www.yimi.com.au/
YOGA THERAPY TRAINING 2015
A Gentle Way.
Enrol:http://www.yimi.com.au/
YOGA CELEBRATION 2015
YOGA AT THE MOVIES with free yoga in the park with Celia Roberts:
http://www.inspiredlivingevents.com/collections/inspiring-film-nights/products/inspiring-film-night-yoga-is
This movie event will book out at only $25.
Good times…
