As Valentine’s Day approaches, it’s time to elevate your oxytocin levels—the ultimate love hormone. Whether you’re flying solo or celebrating with loved ones, boosting your oxytocin can enhance your mood and overall sense of connection. Here are six research-backed strategies to naturally increase oxytocin levels, so you can feel the love this Valentine’s Day:

1. Hug Your Way to Happiness

Discover the power of hugs to boost oxytocin levels naturally. Research shows that extended hugs, lasting at least 10 seconds, can trigger a surge in oxytocin production, promoting feelings of warmth and connection.

2. Shine Bright with Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating mood hormones, including oxytocin. You naturally can get Vitamin D from being exposed to sunlight and from eating fatty fish and fortified dairy products. But don’t let low sunlight levels during the winter or dietary restrictions keep you from getting enough vitamin D. Considering adding a quality supplement - like our Vegan Vitamin D made from organic algae - to help fill in any gaps. 

3. Listen to Your Favorite Tunes 

Embrace the mood-boosting potential of music this Valentine’s Day. Studies reveal that listening to music, especially in social settings, can elevate oxytocin levels, enhancing feelings of connection and joy. A 2015 study found that when jazz singers improvised a song together, their oxytocin levels increased since improvisation required strong social bonds such as trust, cooperation, and communication [1].  

4. Find Your Zen with Yoga

Explore the transformative benefits of yoga for both mind and body. Not only does yoga reduce stress and anxiety, but it also can cause oxytocin release through gentle self-touch and mindful breathing exercises, leaving you feeling grounded and uplifted.

5. Strengthen Bonds with Friends

Celebrate the power of friendship this Valentine’s Day. Spending quality time with friends has been shown to increase oxytocin levels, fostering a sense of belonging and connection that is essential for emotional well-being. It's no wonder Galentine's Day has become its own spin-off holiday!

6. Snuggle Up with Furry Companions

Experience the oxytocin-boosting benefits of pet companionship. Research indicates that physical contact with pets, such as cuddling and petting, can elevate oxytocin levels in both humans and animals, promoting feelings of comfort and relaxation [2].

This Valentine’s Day, prioritize self-love and connection with others using these six strategies to naturally increase oxytocin levels. We hope these tips will help you enjoy a love-filled Valentine's Day, whether you're flying solo or have a special someone. Come back to these tips whenever you feel like you need a boost of love in your day. 

References

1. Keeler, J. R., Roth, E. A., Neuser, B. L., Spitsbergen, J. M., Waters, D. J. M., & Vianney, J. M. (2015). The neurochemistry and social flow of singing: bonding and oxytocin. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 518.

2. Petersson, M., Uvnäs-Moberg, K., Nilsson, A., Gustafson, L. L., Hydbring-Sandberg, E., & Handlin, L. (2017). Oxytocin and cortisol levels in dog owners and their dogs are associated with behavioral patterns: An exploratory study. Frontiers in psychology, 8, 1796.