This is the hormone responsible for happiness and love

#hormone #responsible #happiness #love

Surely you have heard about it at some point in your life, since oxytocin is one of the hormones that is directly related to

happiness and love. It is the one that

allows us to connect with others and show signs of affection.

It is part of the group of happiness hormones, which is responsible for

emotional intelligence and empathy, being the best way to

release it through physical contact (kisses, hugs, etc.). It also helps us connect with ourselves, in search of that much-needed internal balance.

What is oxytocin and what it can do for us

It is popularly known as the love hormone, which

produced in the hypothalamus and is then stored and released through the posterior pituitary gland. Depending on the part of the body in which it has an effect, it can be considered a hormone (when it travels to target organs through the blood) or a neurotransmitter, if it mediates communication between neurons.

It is key to creating social bonds, such as behaviors related to trust, empathy, generosity and compassion. Although its presence also intervenes in the regulation of

fear and some studies show that it could have

a relevant role in learning and memory. These are some of its benefits:

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Strengthens social ties: With all the research behind it, we currently know that this chemical substance is the engine that drives a large part of our social relationships and behaviors such as friendship or trust.

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It makes us feel part of a group: As we told you, oxytocin is essential for our relationships with others. It is released in large quantities when you develop that feeling of belonging to a group, or for example, when you hug your friends.

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Creation of new neural connections: Not only this, but it could even promote the repair of damaged brain tissue. And oxytocin is a multipurpose molecule that can have great benefits in our body, beyond the social and well-being sphere.

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Acts as a shield against depression: not only does it promote these positive feelings, but it also inhibits the action of the amygdala, which is responsible for fear. This reduces negative emotions, making people more confident and

security In themselves.

Ways to produce oxytocin

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Practice sports: Whether it is martial arts, yoga or any other physical activity, everything promotes the production of oxytocin. In addition to this, it is well known that physical exercise has enormous benefits for physical, mental and emotional health.

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Listen to music: Having that moment of peace and relaxation, in which you are alone listening to your song or your favorite group, can increase the levels of this hormone.

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Spend time with friends: As we have previously mentioned, social relationships are key to activating oxytocin, increasing levels of happiness and improving mood.

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Signs of affection: A hug at a time when you are happy, or when you don’t feel like anything, is always welcome and most comforting.

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Have pets: Petting a cat or spending time with your dog can cause oxytocin levels to spike significantly.

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To meditate: Give yourself a moment for yourself, to focus on yourself, turn off fears and practice self-knowledge. This will increase the production of oxytocin, promoting that feeling of comfort.