Ever ponder the idea of what actually makes you feel so bonded and close to your girlfriends, your boyfriend or your dog? That feeling of closeness that is quite intangible? Oxytocin. A powerful little hormone that is produced by our hypothalamus that acts as a neurotransmitter in our brain. Until only recently, we thought this hormone was only useful during labor, helping to facilitate birth and breastfeeding along with materal bonding. Studies have started to show this hormone is responsible for so. much. more.
When are we finding it to be released? How about when ISN'T is released? Hugging, touching and orgasm are all just a few of the ways oxytocin is triggered. Oxytocin released in the brain upon orgasm helps to facilitate bonding and the quest for a monogamous relationship. As a woman, we feel bonded to that person almost immediately! Unfortunately, women produce far more oxytocin than men which leads to the problems we associate with the one night stand. But wait! We had sex! That must mean he really likes me! Yet another difference between men and women.
<3 Gap cardigan, Urban Outfitters tank top, Stella & Dot necklace <3
Not to say men don't benefit from it's effects but a study showed that men with higher levels of oxytocin as compared to men with lower levels often times were obsessive and had more "stalker" potential than the lower counterparts. On the flip side, autism has been linked in several studies to extremely low blood levels of oxytocin. Higher levels have been reported in people who claim to be falling in love.
Our ability to trust is linked directly to a balance of oxytocin. A disease of exceptionally high oxytocin in children has proven to be dangerous as our ability to decide between safe and unsafe is important in tons of our life decisions.
Empathy is increased thus affecting a person's generosity and ability to connect with others and it lowers your blood pressure. Petting your dog? You both are releasing oxytocin for a healthy heart.
my pup Rita
I'm flying down to Orange County on Friday and then to San Fran/Napa on Monday to spend time with my mama and seester. Give your mom or sister a hug and experience relaxation almost instantly. Long few weeks ahead of me! Trying to be superwoman sometimes can get tiring.
my baby sister is here circa '86; me on the left with a huge grin
No comments:
Post a Comment