The Hormone of Love and Connection: Oxytocin

Life after Kids with Drs. Brooke and Lynne

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What would you say is the single most important factor needed for a long, fulfilling life? Health? Exercise? Vitamins and Minerals? Money?...

You could argue that each of these are necessary in one way or another, but current research out of Harvard tells us that the main thing everyone must have for a long and happy life is love and connection! So today on Life after Kids, we’re breaking down the hormone of love and connection, Oxytocin. Oxytocin is a hormone that is released when we experience feelings of love, attachment, and connection. It is often associated with breastfeeding and childbirth, but it can also be released through social bonding and physical touch. In this phase of life, it’s so important to seek out social interactions and to engage in activities that promote the release of oxytocin.

As the kids grow up and leave home, social connection becomes more important than ever for so many reasons, especially because of the positive impact it has on our health and well-being. Let this be a reminder to call a friend, hug your partner, have a girl’s night out, or simply snuggle your pet! All of these activities will release the amazing feel-good benefits of oxytocin, relieving stress and calming your nervous system. Learn more about the hormone of love and connection by listening to today’s episode of Life after Kids.
TimestampSummary
0:00:00 | Introduction to the topic of oxytocin
0:01:49 | Oxytocin is the "love hormone" released during breastfeeding
0:03:32 | Oxytocin acts directly on the body and comes from the pituitary gland
0:05:09 | Oxytocin is released through social bonding and hugs
0:06:08 | Holding a hug for 6 seconds stimulates oxytocin release
0:07:54 | Oxytocin can be released through contact with animals
0:08:47 | Oxytocin trumps other hormones and promotes a calming state
0:09:07 | Seeking social connection is important for reducing stress
0:09:47 | Isolation is the worst thing to do when feeling stressed
0:10:46 | The power of connection and community for longevity and happiness.
0:12:43 | The significance of social interactions and relationships for fulfillment.
0:14:19 | The potential benefits of living in over 50/60 communities.
0:15:19 | The need to be healthy and independent in aging communities.
0:17:08 | Ways to increase oxytocin levels through human connection.
0:18:06 | Anticipation of a lively retirement community with music and dancing.
0:18:34 | The importance of engaging in social interactions for overall health.
0:19:29 | Importance of giving hugs and leading by example
0:19:56 | Reminding to hug kids and teach them through actions

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!
If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.
Making tomorrow even better than today,
Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne
PS... Don't forget to follow us!
Instagram
Facebook
Tik Tok