{"id":8997,"date":"2025-09-25T17:30:00","date_gmt":"2025-09-25T14:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vacayou.com\/magazine\/?p=8997"},"modified":"2025-09-25T17:31:30","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T14:31:30","slug":"hack-your-happiness-hormone-easy-ways-to-activate-oxytocin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vacayou.com\/magazine\/hack-your-happiness-hormone-easy-ways-to-activate-oxytocin\/","title":{"rendered":"Hack Your Happiness Hormones and Activate Oxytocin"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Hugging, cuddles, kisses. All the intimate goodness our bodies and minds crave is produced by the neurotransmitter and happiness hormone, oxytocin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ve probably heard this hormone called by other names\u2014the love drug, the love hormone or the feel-good hormone. While these aren\u2019t the official names, they\u2019re quite descriptive and accurate on how this happiness hormone works within the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lust, love and pleasurable touch sensations are all part of the orgasmic effects this hormone creates. Produced in the hypothalamus, oxytocin has a variety of functions within the brain and body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote\"><blockquote><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fun fact: Females usually have higher levels of oxytocin than males.<\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For the female reproductive system, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/275795#the_love_hormone\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">research<\/a> shows this happiness hormone is released during sexual intimacy, breastfeeding and during childbirth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Assisting in the reproductive system and sexual activity isn\u2019t all this powerful neurotransmitter does. Many notable sources suggest oxytocin plays a psychological role associated with empathy, trust and relationship building. It can also heavily impact social behavior, emotions, promote relaxation, memories and influence other social acts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-seven-ways-to-hack-your-happiness-hormones\">Seven Ways to Hack Your Happiness Hormones<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for an easy way to release your happiness hormone, try one of these options below. But first things first. Your body\u2019s already got the oxytocin factory up and running. And nope, it\u2019s not a love potion. So don\u2019t expect to suddenly swoon or start trusting strangers in line at the coffee shop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-public-id=\"magazine\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_683,h_1024,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302405\/magazine\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Couple hugging on suspended bridge\" class=\"wp-post-8997 wp-image-30161 size-full\" data-format=\"webp\" data-transformations=\"c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\" data-version=\"1756302405\" data-seo=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_683,h_1024,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302405\/magazine\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 683w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_200,h_300,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302405\/magazine\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 200w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_768,h_1152,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302405\/magazine\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 768w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_600,h_900,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302405\/magazine\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 600w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302405\/magazine\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash\/Couple-hugging-on-suspended-bridge-daniel-j-schwarz-YtY724tdl7Y-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-hug-it-out\">1. Hug it Out<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s just as easy as it sounds. Hug it out with someone. Whether it\u2019s a romantic partner, friend, siblings, parent or acquaintance, hug them the next time you see them.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-hang-with-friends\">2. Hang with Friends<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Spending time with friends is sure to guarantee an oxytocin boost. It can be a verbal chat via the phone, a direct message on Instagram or quality face-to-face time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each of these creates strong bonds that can help you feel supported and loved\u2014all great for your emotional well-being.<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img width=\"688\" height=\"1024\" data-public-id=\"magazine\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_688,h_1024,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302415\/magazine\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Two senior friends enjoying a workout together outdoors\" class=\"wp-post-8997 wp-image-30158 size-full\" data-format=\"webp\" data-transformations=\"c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\" data-version=\"1756302415\" data-seo=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_688,h_1024,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302415\/magazine\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936.jpg?_i=AA 688w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_202,h_300,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302415\/magazine\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936.jpg?_i=AA 202w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_768,h_1143,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302415\/magazine\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936.jpg?_i=AA 768w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_600,h_893,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302415\/magazine\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936.jpg?_i=AA 600w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302415\/magazine\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936\/Two-mature-friends-post-workout-Cecilie_Arcurs-iStock-544600936.jpg?_i=AA 806w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 688px) 100vw, 688px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img width=\"819\" height=\"1024\" data-public-id=\"magazine\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_819,h_1024,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302399\/magazine\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA\" alt=\"Woman practicing yoga on deck\" class=\"wp-post-8997 wp-image-30162 size-full\" data-format=\"webp\" data-transformations=\"c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\" data-version=\"1756302399\" data-seo=\"1\" srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_819,h_1024,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302399\/magazine\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 819w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_240,h_300,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302399\/magazine\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 240w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_768,h_960,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302399\/magazine\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 768w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_600,h_750,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302399\/magazine\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 600w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302399\/magazine\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash\/Woman-practicing-yoga-on-deck-erik-brolin-GmQIxGK489o-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 960w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-practice-yoga\">3. Practice Yoga<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yoga is a powerful practice and physical exercise that\u2019s a natural way to increase levels of oxytocin. It may also aid in reducing stress, anxiety, improving sleep and your overall well-being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Head to a yoga studio or cultivate your own at-home practice if you prefer to be at home. The purpose is to connect to your mind, body and spirit.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-pet-your-furry-friend\">4. Pet Your Furry Friend<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a dog, cat, bunny or any other furry friend at home that allows you to pet them, give them a generous belly rub.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not only are you doing wonders for their soul as they succumb to your gentle rubs, but <a href=\"https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2014.01529\/full#h9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">research<\/a> shows this interaction between you (and specifically) your dog can be a powerful way to release oxytocin for both humans and animals.<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSI2ODMiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAyNCI+PHJlY3Qgd2lkdGg9IjEwMCUiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAwJSI+PGFuaW1hdGUgYXR0cmlidXRlTmFtZT0iZmlsbCIgdmFsdWVzPSJyZ2JhKDE1MywxNTMsMTUzLDAuNSk7cmdiYSgxNTMsMTUzLDE1MywwLjEpO3JnYmEoMTUzLDE1MywxNTMsMC41KSIgZHVyPSIycyIgcmVwZWF0Q291bnQ9ImluZGVmaW5pdGUiIC8+PC9yZWN0Pjwvc3ZnPg==\" alt=\"Woman on porch smooching her dog\" class=\"wp-post-8997 wp-image-30159 size-full\" data-public-id=\"magazine\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash.jpg\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\" data-version=\"1756302410\" data-seo=\"1\" data-size=\"683 1024\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_683,h_1024,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302410\/magazine\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 683w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_200,h_300,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302410\/magazine\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 200w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_768,h_1152,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302410\/magazine\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 768w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_600,h_900,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302410\/magazine\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 600w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302410\/magazine\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash\/Woman-smooching-her-dog-on-patio-roberto-nickson-_JGVVEfbTVQ-unsplash.jpg?_i=AA 800w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" data-delivery=\"upload\" onload=\";window.CLDBind?CLDBind(this):null;\" data-cloudinary=\"lazy\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSI2ODMiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAyNCI+PHJlY3Qgd2lkdGg9IjEwMCUiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAwJSI+PGFuaW1hdGUgYXR0cmlidXRlTmFtZT0iZmlsbCIgdmFsdWVzPSJyZ2JhKDE1MywxNTMsMTUzLDAuNSk7cmdiYSgxNTMsMTUzLDE1MywwLjEpO3JnYmEoMTUzLDE1MywxNTMsMC41KSIgZHVyPSIycyIgcmVwZWF0Q291bnQ9ImluZGVmaW5pdGUiIC8+PC9yZWN0Pjwvc3ZnPg==\" alt=\"Female hands holding red heart\" class=\"wp-post-8997 wp-image-30164 size-full\" data-public-id=\"magazine\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282.jpg\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\" data-version=\"1756302394\" data-seo=\"1\" data-size=\"683 1024\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_683,h_1024,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302394\/magazine\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282.jpg?_i=AA 683w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_200,h_300,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302394\/magazine\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282.jpg?_i=AA 200w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_768,h_1152,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302394\/magazine\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282.jpg?_i=AA 768w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_600,h_900,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302394\/magazine\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282.jpg?_i=AA 600w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302394\/magazine\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282\/Hands-cupping-heart-kindness-concept-Leks_Laputin-iStock-1096150282.jpg?_i=AA 800w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" data-delivery=\"upload\" onload=\";window.CLDBind?CLDBind(this):null;\" data-cloudinary=\"lazy\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-give-the-gift-of-kindness\">5. Give the Gift of Kindness<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Random acts of kindness are an easy way to release this happiness hormone. Whether it\u2019s your time, energy or resources, doing something nice for someone else brightens everyone\u2019s mood. It can promote positive sentiment on both the receiving and giving end.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-get-a-massage\">6. Get a Massage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you love massages, this is a surefire way to increase oxytocin levels\u2014be it a professional massage, a shoulder rub from a friend or a self-massage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can rub your temples, your back, your feet, just be creative. Let your body be caressed and rubbed in ways that get it to relax.<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSI2ODMiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAyNCI+PHJlY3Qgd2lkdGg9IjEwMCUiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAwJSI+PGFuaW1hdGUgYXR0cmlidXRlTmFtZT0iZmlsbCIgdmFsdWVzPSJyZ2JhKDE1MywxNTMsMTUzLDAuNSk7cmdiYSgxNTMsMTUzLDE1MywwLjEpO3JnYmEoMTUzLDE1MywxNTMsMC41KSIgZHVyPSIycyIgcmVwZWF0Q291bnQ9ImluZGVmaW5pdGUiIC8+PC9yZWN0Pjwvc3ZnPg==\" alt=\"Closeup of man having a massage\" class=\"wp-post-8997 wp-image-30160 size-full\" data-public-id=\"magazine\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070.jpg\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\" data-version=\"1756302384\" data-seo=\"1\" data-size=\"683 1024\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_683,h_1024,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302384\/magazine\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070.jpg?_i=AA 683w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_200,h_300,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302384\/magazine\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070.jpg?_i=AA 200w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_768,h_1152,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302384\/magazine\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070.jpg?_i=AA 768w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_600,h_900,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302384\/magazine\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070.jpg?_i=AA 600w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302384\/magazine\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070\/Closeup-of-someone-getting-a-massage-macniak-iStock-1138203070.jpg?_i=AA 800w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" data-delivery=\"upload\" onload=\";window.CLDBind?CLDBind(this):null;\" data-cloudinary=\"lazy\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img width=\"728\" height=\"1024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSI3MjgiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAyNCI+PHJlY3Qgd2lkdGg9IjEwMCUiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAwJSI+PGFuaW1hdGUgYXR0cmlidXRlTmFtZT0iZmlsbCIgdmFsdWVzPSJyZ2JhKDE1MywxNTMsMTUzLDAuNSk7cmdiYSgxNTMsMTUzLDE1MywwLjEpO3JnYmEoMTUzLDE1MywxNTMsMC41KSIgZHVyPSIycyIgcmVwZWF0Q291bnQ9ImluZGVmaW5pdGUiIC8+PC9yZWN0Pjwvc3ZnPg==\" alt=\"Closeup shot of two unrecognizable people holding hands in comfort\" class=\"wp-post-8997 wp-image-30157 size-full\" data-public-id=\"magazine\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668.jpg\" data-format=\"jpg\" data-transformations=\"c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\" data-version=\"1756302378\" data-seo=\"1\" data-size=\"728 1024\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_728,h_1024,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302378\/magazine\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668.jpg?_i=AA 728w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_213,h_300,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302378\/magazine\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668.jpg?_i=AA 213w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_768,h_1080,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302378\/magazine\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668.jpg?_i=AA 768w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/w_600,h_844,c_scale\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302378\/magazine\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668.jpg?_i=AA 600w, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/vacayou\/images\/c_fill,g_auto,w_1258\/f_webp,q_auto\/v1756302378\/magazine\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668\/Comforting-hands-forgiveness-concept-PeopleImages-iStock-894377668.jpg?_i=AA 853w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 728px) 100vw, 728px\" data-delivery=\"upload\" onload=\";window.CLDBind?CLDBind(this):null;\" data-cloudinary=\"lazy\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-7-forgive-quickly\">7. Forgive Quickly<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Holding a grudge can negatively impact your overall health. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychologytoday.com\/us\/blog\/the-athletes-way\/201504\/holding-grudge-produces-cortisol-and-diminishes-oxytocin\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Research<\/a> shows that when you hold a grudge, it actually does more harm than good by decreasing oxytocin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, holding a vendetta against someone wreaks havoc on your well-being. The cue here is to forgive quickly and often. Learning to let go, resolving conflict, and practicing forgiveness are all powerful tools to naturally increase your oxytocin levels and promote close feelings of bonding with yourself and others.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-snapshot-summary\">Snapshot Summary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Oxytocin, the happiness hormone, naturally boosts mood, trust and social bonding through simple daily activities. Released during hugs, social connections and physical touch, this neurotransmitter promotes emotional well-being and relaxation. Easy ways to increase oxytocin include practicing yoga, spending time with friends, petting animals, giving massages, performing acts of kindness and practicing forgiveness. Research shows the happiness hormone plays crucial roles in relationships, empathy and stress reduction for overall mental health.<\/summary>\n\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-about-vacayou\">About Vacayou<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At Vacayou [pronounced VACAY &#8211; YOU], we believe that travel has the power to change lives. The power to <strong>revive, rejuvenate and redirect your inner wellness warrior<\/strong>. And that\u2019s why we\u2019re here. Vacayou brings the world of wellness travel to you!<br><br>No matter how far or how adventurous, our team scours the globe to curate the best in wellness travel. However, the booking process can often be time-consuming and complicated. We\u2019ve simplified your <strong>search for wellness and active vacations<\/strong> with Vacayou&#8217;s Instant Book, <strong>so your dream wellness getaway is now just one click away<\/strong>.<br><br>Start the trip of your lifetime today with <a href=\"https:\/\/vacayou.com\/\">Vacayou<\/a>. We are here to help create a healthier global community through wellness and active travel.&nbsp;<br><br>To keep up with the latest wellness trends and experiences, be sure to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/signup.vacayou.com\/en-us\/newsletter-opt-in\">subscribe to our newsletter<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Hugging, cuddles, kisses. All the intimate goodness our bodies and minds crave is produced by the neurotransmitter and happiness hormone, oxytocin. You\u2019ve probably heard this hormone called by other names\u2014the&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":40,"featured_media":30163,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"content-type":"","_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"no","loftocean_post_format_gallery":"","loftocean_post_format_gallery_ids":"","loftocean_post_format_gallery_urls":"","loftocean_post_format_video_id":"","loftocean_post_format_video_url":"","loftocean_post_format_video_type":"","loftocean_post_format_video":"","loftocean_post_format_audio_type":"","loftocean_post_format_audio_url":"","loftocean_post_format_audio_id":"","loftocean_post_format_audio":"","fallsky_single_post_hide_thumbnail":"","fallsky_single_post_template":"","fallsky_single_post_sidebar":"","loftocean-featured-post":"","loftocean-like-count":1,"loftocean-view-count":7663,"loftocean_post_co_authors":"","loftocean_single_post_author_order":"","fallsky_page_header_layout":"","fallsky_hide_before_page_content_ad":"","fallsky_hide_after_page_content_ad":"","_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[40],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-8997","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-healthy-living"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Hack Your Happiness Hormones and Activate Oxytocin<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Looking for an easy way to hack into your happiness hormone? 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