I got drunk on vacation recently.

But not from tequila shots or fancy cocktails with tiny umbrellas.

Nope, I got drunk on oxytocin. 💃

Let me explain…

I recently attended a big family wedding. My family? We’re huggers. Like, full-body, soul-to-soul, squeeze-you-like-a-bear kind of huggers. Hugs are non-negotiable!

By the end of the weekend, I was more positive, relaxed, and more emotionally regulated than I’ve felt in a while. It wasn’t the champagne. It was the hugs.

That “high” feeling? That was oxytocin doing its thing.

So, what is oxytocin, and why should we care?

Oxytocin is often referred to as the "love hormone" or the "cuddle hormone." It’s the neurotransmitter that gets released during bonding moments—hugs, cuddles, quality time, even petting your dog.

But oxytocin doesn’t just make us feel warm and fuzzy. It has powerful effects on our nervous system, gut health, and even our immune system.

✨ The Benefits of Oxytocin:

1. Nervous System Regulation:
Oxytocin calms the stress response. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system—aka the "rest and digest" mode—which helps reduce anxiety, lowers cortisol, and improves emotional resilience.

2. Gut Microbiome:
Yep, oxytocin can actually support gut health. Research suggests it influences gut motility and microbial diversity. When you're relaxed and connected, your digestion works better.

3. Immune System Support:
Oxytocin helps modulate inflammation, a root contributor to many autoimmune and chronic illnesses. More oxytocin = less stress = stronger immune response.

4. Mood and Mental Health:
Low oxytocin levels are linked to depression and social withdrawal. Boosting oxytocin through connection is a powerful tool for mental wellness.

5. Hormonal Balance:
Oxytocin balances out adrenaline and cortisol—the stress hormones.  More oxytocin means better hormonal balance and fewer symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and sleep issues.

🧠 Why It's the Forgotten Neurotransmitter

We talk a lot about serotonin and dopamine, but oxytocin? It’s the underdog. The introvert at the neurotransmitter party. But for women especially, oxytocin is key to emotional health, digestion, and hormone balance.

And the best part? You don’t need a prescription—just connection.

💞 5 Simple Ways to Boost Your Oxytocin (No Alcohol Required):

1. Hug someone you love for 20+ seconds. Yep, there’s a magic number. Go deep. Squeeze longer.

2. Spend quality time with people who “get” you. Authentic connection is oxytocin gold.

3. Laugh often and out loud. Bonus points if it’s with a friend.

4. Practice gratitude and give compliments. Giving love is just as powerful as receiving it.

5. Use touch intentionally. Pet your dog. Hold your partner’s hand. Massage your feet.

So next time you're feeling low, bloated, anxious, or disconnected, don't underestimate the power of a hug (or five). You might just need a little oxytocin buzz.

And if you're looking to support your gut and nervous system for real, lasting health? That’s exactly what we do here at Rebecca Arsena Functional Wellness.

Let’s get you feeling high on health—the good kind. 💕