Sweat yourself happy: the oxytocin power in your sweat session
It’s no secret that regular exercise is good for our health. But did you know that a simple sauna session can boost your happiness? And not just because of the well-known endorphin kick, but also because of a very specific hormone: oxytocin. Oxytocin, also known as the “cuddle hormone,” is normally released during physical closeness and touch and creates a feeling of security and trust.
What many people don’t know, however, is that oxytocin is also released during sauna sessions. Especially during intense sauna sessions, where the body is challenged by heat and sweat, oxytocin levels increase significantly. This was confirmed by a fascinating study conducted by the University of Jyväskylä in Finland. In this study, subjects were tested after a sauna session, and elevated levels of oxytocin were measured in their blood.
What does this mean for your well-being? Well, the feeling of happiness that comes from the release of oxytocin can have a positive long-term effect on your mental health. It can reduce stress, relieve anxiety symptoms, and promote an overall sense of well-being and relaxation. Saunas thus become a holistic wellness practice that not only pampers your body, but your mind as well.
What is oxytocin?
Oxytocin is a hormone often referred to as the “cuddle hormone.” It is produced in the brain and plays an important role in forming bonds between people. Oxytocin is released, for example, during touching, hugging or even breastfeeding. But physical activity can also stimulate the production of oxytocin.
For example, a sweat session can actually help us feel happier, as physical exertion increases the release of oxytocin. The hormone not only affects our mood, but can also lower blood pressure and reduce stress. So it’s not surprising that we often feel more relaxed and satisfied after a sauna session.
How does oxytocin influence the feeling of happiness?
Oxytocin is a hormone that is often associated with the bond between mother and child. However, it also has other positive effects on the body and mind. A sweat session can stimulate the release of oxytocin in the body, which can lead to increased feelings of happiness. The hormone has a calming effect and reduces stress hormones such as cortisol in the body.
In addition, oxytocin promotes social behavior and strengthens trust in other people. So not only can it help us feel happier, it can also improve our relationships with others. Clearly, oxytocin is an interesting hormone with numerous positive effects on the body and mind.
How can we increase our oxytocin levels?
There are several ways to increase oxytocin levels. One of them is physical activity, because sports increase the release of the hormone. But social interactions can also help increase oxytocin levels. A loving conversation with a partner or a hug from friends can help. Touch, such as massages or caresses, can also promote the release of oxytocin.
In addition, conscious relaxation through yoga or meditation can also help to increase hormone levels. So there are many ways to increase well-being by boosting oxytocin levels – and it’s often the little things in everyday life that can have a big impact.
Conclusion
In summary, a simple sweat can actually make you happier, all thanks to your body’s own hormone, oxytocin. The release of oxytocin during exercise not only makes us happier and more content, but also less stressed and anxious. The positive effect of oxytocin on our mood and well-being has been scientifically proven and should not be underestimated. That’s why it’s worth going to the sauna or exercising regularly to benefit from the positive effects on our psyche. Whether jogging, yoga or strength training – any kind of exercise can help us feel happier and more balanced.
