July 02, 2024
If you're a parent of a baby and you're not leveraging the power of oxytocin, you might be missing out on an incredible opportunity to enhance your child's well-being and your own.
What is Oxytocin?
Oxytocin, often referred to as ‘The Love Drug,’ is a hormone that plays a crucial role in social bonding, mood regulation, and overall well-being. Although women generally produce higher levels of oxytocin than men, everyone benefits from this powerful hormone. Its effects are profoundly positive: it calms, soothes, nurtures, promotes bonding, and even boosts the immune system.
Why is Oxytocin Important for Parents and Babies?
For parents, particularly mothers, oxytocin is vital. It enhances your ability to bond with your baby, which is essential for your baby's emotional and physical health. The levels of oxytocin you have directly influence the amount you can share with your baby, so maintaining high levels is beneficial for both of you.
How to Increase Oxytocin Levels
There are several ways to naturally boost your oxytocin levels, ensuring you can pass on its benefits to your baby:
Skin-to-Skin Contact: Holding your baby close and engaging in skin-to-skin contact not only helps your baby but also increases your own oxytocin levels.
Gratitude: Start and end your day by reflecting on your blessings. Practicing gratitude can elevate your mood and boost oxytocin.
Prayer and Meditation: Engaging in prayer or meditation can enhance feelings of peace and connectedness, raising oxytocin levels.
Nature Walks: Spending time in nature, whether it's a walk along the beach or a hike in the bush, can increase your oxytocin levels.
Chiropractic Adjustments: Regular chiropractic care can help improve your overall well-being and potentially boost your oxytocin production.
What Decreases Oxytocin Production?
Just as certain activities can increase oxytocin, other factors can decrease its production:
- Stress,
- Lack of physical contact
- Social isolation
- Negative emotional states
can all lower your oxytocin levels. It's important to be mindful of these factors and find ways to mitigate their impact.
The Power of Parental Touch
Whenever your child seems out of sorts, a gentle touch from Mum, Dad or a trusted carer can work wonders. Through the power of touch, you can transfer oxytocin to your baby, helping them feel more secure and loved. This natural ‘love drug’ is one of the simplest yet most profound ways to support your baby's development and well-being.
Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can make a significant difference in both your life and your baby’s. Embrace the power of oxytocin and experience the benefits of this remarkable hormone for your family.
References:
Plaza-Manzano, G., et al. Changes in biochemical markers of pain perception and stress response after spinal manipulation. Journal Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy 2014;44(4):231-9. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2014.4996.
Patty Van Cappellen, et. Al. Effects of oxytocin administration on spirituality and emotional responses to meditation. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci. 2016 Oct; 11(10): 1579–1587.
Galbally M1 et. al.The role of oxytocin in mother-infant relations: a systematic review of human studies.
Harv Rev Psychiatry. 2011 Jan-Feb;19(1):1-14. doi: 10.3109/10673229.2011.549771.
