Maximizing the oxytocin benefits in your lifestyle
By Cazzy Lewchuk, Staff Writer
Despite only being scientifically discovered within the last 150 years, oxytocin (commonly known as the “love hormone”) has been making almost every type of animal happy since the beginning of life on Earth. It is not only a physical hormone in our bodies, but a universal concept responsible for the absence of pain and abundance of creation throughout history.
Retired Emeritus Lecturer at UBC, Denes Devenyi, considers oxytocin to be crucial for selflessness. In 2009 he was asked by the Hungarian Academy of Science to present his “Oxytocin Hypothesis,” and he has stated that one can maximize their “oxytocin footprint”—that is, increase the amount of oxytocin that you create for yourself and others.
Oxytocin is a molecule that is literally the absence of suffering, and the foundation of happiness and creation. It has been recognized by the World Health Organization as an essential medication needed for basic human health. Oxytocin is produced and released during such very intimate acts as childbirth, breastfeeding, and sex. However, production is also stimulated through other, much simpler means, like a hug or a good conversation. The feeling and transfer doesn’t even have to be human to human—animals and pets give and receive the same effects.
Any act of creation produces oxytocin. The artist painting a picture has it flow through them as a result of artistic creativity. In turn, those who view the picture have oxytocin surge in their bodies. It’s truly a scientific method of synergy and an indicator of the unlimited potential stirring within humanity.
Laughter produces it. Connecting with someone we like produces it, even if only online. Making physical contact with someone—a hug or a handshake—establishes trust through the surge of oxytocin. Eating healthy and delicious foods helps stimulate its manufacturing. It’s based on sharing, a concept that we’ve been taught since kindergarten. All forms of oxytocin-transfer involve sharing something, whether it’s a physical connection or an emotional one.
In short, this natural hormone is incredibly easy to get, and it’s something we can all use more of in our lives through very simple changes. It reduces pain, stimulates positive emotions, creates genuine bonds between living things, and basically sums up the essence of all things that make humanity better. Oxytocin is almost the physical embodiment of love itself. It’s quite possible that, to paraphrase the Beatles, all you need is oxytocin.
Maximize your oxytocin footprint on this Earth. The saying “live, laugh, love” may be a cliché, but it’s a powerful message. It is the road to more oxytocin, creating better happiness for not only yourself but the entire human race. Sharing isn’t just the best thing in life; when it all boils down, it is the only thing.
