Turn on Oxytocin with Meditation
Oxytocin Calms & Connects
Connection is a fundamental aspect of health but unfortunately it is given very little focus. We can experience deeper connections with others when we have space to calm and connect ourselves. The digital world makes this more difficult to do by giving a false sense of connection. Our hormones and nervous systems respond positively to meditation and to quality time with loved ones. Oxytocin is the love hormone. It helps us connect.
Women in particular thrive when they feel connected to a tribe, a community or others with shared values. This is hard-wired into us. Stimulating oxytocin through social interactions, physicality and sexual expression positively impact all our health on many levels. The research supports this. Unplugging is essential and interacting with the digital world from a place of calm is a new skill to develop.
Meditation for Adrenal Fatigue
Your adrenal glands are two triangle-shaped glands just above the kidneys. They are the size of a coin. Our adrenal glands produce work in concert our hypothalamus and pituitary to regulate cortisol. Chronic stress can lead to a dysregulation of the HPA axis.
Low energy, trouble sleeping, frequent urination, weight gain, mood swings, depression, anxiety, brain fog, and autoimmune issues are all linked with this dysregulation. Stress management is the best treatment & meditation is by far the most effective intervention. Spending quality time with people you love stimulates oxytocin and reduces cortisol.
Nutrients & Herbs
These can be supportive if used correctly. These are not recommended unless lifestyle factors like stress management, sleep and connection are also being addressed.
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that is generally safe for most people. It has been scientifically proven to improve stress resistance and lower anxiety.This calming herb can be taken at night.
Curcumin
The active compound in turmeric has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin can enhance mood and is effective for treating depression. Concentrated extracts have up to 95% curcumin, whereas turmeric powder only has 3%.
Vitamin D
Low levels of vitamin D can exacerbate the effect of adrenal insufficiency. Cod liver oil is an excellent source of both vitamin A and D in a bioavailable form. For immune dysregulation which can occur with cortisol dysregulation these vitamins are helpful.
Licorice root
Most people with a cortisol dysregulation have high cortisol and therefore should avoid licorice. If you have been tested and do not produce enough cortisol, licorice root can help. Licorice root can improve energy.
Phosphatidylserine (PS)
Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid found in cells that influence immune function, cortisol overproduction and muscle metabolism. Ensure you get phosphatidylserine and not phosphorylated serine. Do not take this if you haven’t tested cortisol and know that you are overproducing it.
Vitamin C
The adrenal glands contain high concentrations of vitamin c which is secreted during stressful events. Those with chronic stress benefit from supplementation.
Related Posts
