The Oxytocin Factor in Complementary Health Practice
You’ve probably heard of the wonder hormone, oxytocin, before…
The stuff of babies and mothers, the hormone that has enabled superb human achievement through the basic building blocks of society: the bond between infants and their carers.
And we need it as adults too - even if it can be harder to come by, depending on how we interact with others and our physical environment.
Oxytocin is the stuff that creates feelings of happiness, safety and comfort - basically everything we need to feel good.
Turns out that oxytocin is probably connected to Hygge - remember the craze (in the UK anyway) to imitate the all-important Danish concept of hygge a few years ago? There were cosy blankets and books about it everywhere.
Well, those same hygge - or happiness - researchers have found that the same positive feelings are activated by soft lighting, cosy places, quiet spaces, and our positive social connections with others.
We need each other, and we need welcoming, warm spaces where we can be ourselves.
It sounds straightforward, doesn’t it?
But the design of Western society continues to drive feelings of isolation, loneliness and even despair. We have far more hygge to go before we reach a state of happiness, in the UK at least…
I think this is where the popularity of alternative and holistic health has emerged.
First of all, there is physical contact with the body, which involves nurturing and healing touch. It is contact that involves deeper listening by the practitioner, prolonged attention, perceptive awareness and empathy. This translates into the release of oxytocin, and a sense of being heard, cared for and connected.
Secondly, the design of most complementary health practitioners’ spaces invites the essential concepts of hygge: soft lighting, gentle spaces, blankets and pillows, and a sense of peace and tranquility. These are some of society’s sacred spaces. Cue more oxytocin, and the ability to relax and feel safe.
Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, complementary health practitioners are drawn to the work usually because of their love of working with people. They engage with positivity, empathy and a desire to connect authentically.
I am very grateful for the role of oxytocin in my practice, and the ways in which I can support the natural increase of oxytocin in my clients - through our interactions, the physical environment and through energy therapies and hands-on healing.
What are some ways you could increase your hygge, and therefore oxytocin, in your life?
Here are a few ideas:
Find a complementary health practitioner who offers a treatment that makes you feel good
Spend time with people who you can be yourself with
Spend time with your pet - or borrow one if you don’t have one of your own!
Design your home with warm light bulbs, floor or side lamps, and candles
Make a snuggly corner in your home or living room, with extra soft blankets and cushions
Make time to relax and enjoy the above!