Happy Monday 👋 

Every week, I go deep into the roots of health in search of the best ingredients to prepare a delicious and nutritious menu for you!

On today’s menu I’ve got: Oxytocin - The Love Hormone

Enjoy!

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Starter 🥗 

Cuddle Season

The days are shorter, the air is cooler, and staying home and cuddling up seems like the perfect plan.

Whether it's a hug, a snuggle under a blanket, or simply being close to someone you love, these moments feel good for a reason - oxytocin.

Oxytocin, also known as the "love hormone," is not just about romance. It has a significant impact on how we bond with others, manage stress, and improve our health. ❤️ 

So, as we approach cuddle season, let's look at the science behind this feel-good hormone and how it shapes our lives.

Main 🥙 

The Magic of Oxytocin

When we are physically affectionate, the hypothalamus produces the cuddle hormone, which is then released into the bloodstream by the pituitary gland. 🧠 

Mostly released during bonding activities, such as hugging, sexual activities, holding hands, or petting your dog, oxytocin helps strengthen emotional connections and boost feelings of trust and safety.

But that’s not all!

Oxytocin has also been shown to…

• protect against illnesses (by reducing cortisol)

• improve heart health 💗 

• boost mental health

• alleviate fears

• relieve pain

• help fall and stay asleep 💤 

Dessert 🍰 

7 Ways to Boost Oxytocin Naturally

Cuddling and sexual contact have long been known to promote oxytocin production. However, there are further natural ways to increase oxytocin production:

Here are 7 ways to boost oxytocin naturally:

• 🎶 listen to music - or make your own

• 🧘 practice yoga

• 💆 both receive or give a massage

• 💝 share love and affection (verbally)

• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 spend quality time with friends (for example, running followed by brunching and then working out 😉)

• 👩‍🍳 cook, share, and eat food with family and friends

• 🐕️ cuddle with a dog