This week, I ponder on a fundamental aspect of our brain chemistry: Oxytocin levels.
For the past four years, Tj Power has been enlightening us about managing our mental health by understanding our control over brain chemicals. He introduced ‘The DOSE Effect,’ an acronym for Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, and Endorphins, emphasising how these chemicals shape our well-being.
Last week’s challenge for our BIPPers involved raising and understanding Oxytocin, leading to the creation of five new habits. Here’s what I discovered:
- Oxytocin, the Love Chemical: I’ve realised that much of my life has been driven by Oxytocin. It’s the chemical that boosts confidence and fosters happiness in others.
- The Power of Community: Understanding Oxytocin has deepened my appreciation for community over mere networking. Communities thrive on reciprocal needs and the genuine desire to support and uplift each other.
- Personal Insights: Learning about Oxytocin has helped me understand my own drivers and why I’ve felt lonely or under-confident at times. A fundamental human need is to contribute, and fulfilling this need in a receptive environment enhances both giver and receiver’s well-being.
So, why have I teased you with the fact I hugged a leather clad biker after a horrible accident? I think you will understand when you read this.
Several years ago, I was walking over Waterloo Bridge from Waterloo to the top of Charing Cross Road. I didn’t take a taxi, money was tight, I was also going to a very tough meeting, it was also pouring with rain. I felt pretty low. Low in confidence and low about my value to others.
Right in front of me, I witnessed a taxi changing lanes, which impacted a heavily leathered delivery driver on a motorbike, his bike went over and skidded and came to a standstill just as I reached the man.
My immediate instinct, as he found his way back onto his feet, was to ask..
“May I give you a cuddle?”
His reply was “alright then’.
I could feel the shock in his body, and I closed my eyes and absorbed it. We held onto each other for a significant amount of time.
Cars were rushing by, no one stopped and in time he picked his bike up, and was on his way, and so was I.
On arrival at the meeting that I was dreading, I felt so different, more confident, I had more perspective and I definitely felt a connection to that man, even though it was fleeting.
So, why share this story?
- It’s a testament to the unexpected, yet profound impacts of offering a simple act of kindness—a hug. Tj advises to aim for five such hugs a day to mutually boost Oxytocin (pets are included).
- Tj’s teachings encourage us to recognise our personal drivers and vulnerabilities, and to actively seek and offer support, nurturing our collective well-being.
- I’m eager to share more ways to enhance your Oxytocin levels and further enrich your emotional and financial wealth.
There are 4 other great ways to raise your Oxytocin, happy to share them with you. BIG thank you to Tj for all his weekly, dedicated inspiration.
Have a loved-filled week, hunt out the best place for your whole wellbeing, as I said back in 2001, Emotional Wealth leads to Financial Wealth and we witness this daily.
With love and gratitude,
Penny
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