Can you feel the love? You may be closer to it than you think.
Lets entertain the idea of finding health by simply exploring connections within yourself and with those around you. The process most sensically begins with true authentic self love.
Many find it easier to spread love to others but cut themselves short with a critical eye and mind. This path is not always easy, but practiced as a thoughtful intention it can become a part of your daily repertoire. Picture self love as the starting block, forming the foundation of appreciation and self acceptance so you can successfully dive into relationships with others.
How does love help to heal the body?
Love can have many beautiful implications on the self in deference to hate which causes stress.
For most, love is an intuitive process. Love is shared with others experiencing loss, grief, and disease for example- because we we have felt its healing power. On the flip side, we know chronic stress and its destructive capabilities on our minds and bodies.
The simple act of the human touch be it a handshake or a hug will spur the body to release oxytocin. This process happens for both yourself and the individual you are touching.
Oxytocin has many roles in our body that may have effects on our health. Interestingly, oxytocin has known anti-inflammatory properties and also reduces the cortisol level in the body which is a stress hormone. High cortisol levels are known to play an important role in glucose regulation, they usually result in high blood sugars (hyperglycemia).
What is oxytocin?
Simply explained by Psychology Today:
“Cortisol is the hormone that our body releases when we are exposed to stressful situations. You may know cortisol as “tire around the belly” hormone. That’s because large amounts of it over time can stimulate fat storage around the stomach. Plus, cortisol over prolonged periods can lead to heart disease and other health problems. On the flip side, oxytocin is known as the “cuddle hormone” and it makes us feel good inside. Not only is it an important hormone in reproduction and birthing, it’s also known to brighten our mood. When something makes us feel good, we want more of it.
Now what?
The goal is to increase your oxytocin levels and decrease your cortisol levels for a balanced state of mind. This can be achieved through petting a cat or dog, hugging a friend or perhaps shaking a strangers hand. Reap the health benefits, they are there waiting- you just need to feel the love…