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List of Activities That Trigger Oxytocin Release

Oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone,” is released in the human body in response to certain stimuli. Once it’s released, it increases feelings of love, connection, well-being, and calmness.

Physically, oxytocin can lower a person’s blood pressure and heart rate, and it can directly fight stress by decreasing the release of the “stress hormone,” cortisol. Oxytocin can also work to boost the immune system. You can learn more here: “Love to Destress: Oxytocin and Stress Relief.”

Oxytocin Producing Activities

Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of the activities known to elicit oxytocin release in humans.

  • Hugging
  • Cuddling
  • Sleeping next to someone you love
  • Gazing into your dog’s eyes
  • Breastfeeding your baby
  • Having sex
  • Watching an emotional movie
  • Petting or playing with animals
  • Dancing
  • Connecting with friends online
  • Listening to soothing music
  • Going for a walk in the sunshine
  • Looking into a loved one’s eyes
  • Getting a massage
  • Meditating while focusing on others rather than self
  • Sharing a meal with a loved one

Remember to provide these experiences for those you love as well, to boost their oxytocin. When your loved ones feel happy, secure, and safe with you, they will respond with oxytocin producing actions toward you. So give your friend a gift to boost her oxytocin. Listen intently to your partner while making eye contact to trigger his or her oxytocin. Send a friendly message to a friend to help his oxytocin level increase.

Send as much love-lifting energy into the world as you can and watch it come back to you.

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Destress.com is not intended to replace professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment by a licensed professional. If you require any medical-related advice, contact your physician promptly. Information at Destress.com is exclusively of a general reference nature. Do not disregard medical advice or delay treatment as a result of accessing information on this website or any external links provided on the website. Destress.com is not a counseling or crisis service. The diagnosis and treatment of depression and other psychiatric disorders should be performed by health care professionals. If you are suicidal, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), provides access to trained telephone counselors, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week