Tag Archives: oxytocin

Cuddles and Hugs

Have you heard of “cuddle clubs?” They are the latest trend around the world among Millennials, Gen X’ers and Boomers who are in need of a hug. Cuddling – with a parent or sibling or even a favorite stuffed animal – was easier when we were younger. But it can be difficult for an adult who is not in a relationship to find a partner to embrace. With the widespread use of social media on the Internet taking the place of face-to-face interactions and delayed marriage rates, young adults are … Continue reading

Posted in stress, well-being, your self | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Love and Simple Acts of Kindness

Think about when you and your partner fell in love. That alchemy continues throughout life, and how we treat each other matters. We can change neural functions when we’re more compassionate. And holding hands is enough to reduce stress. The possibilities for opening our hearts are endless: Express gratitude. If you notice a caring gesture or a job well done, why not mention it? You may be pleasantly surprised at what you get in return. Inject humor. Lightheartedness is often the first casualty of a busy life. Humor, playfulness and … Continue reading

Posted in intimate partner, stress, well-being, your self | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Improving Your Relationship for Valentine’s Day

With research statistics still indicating that one out of every two marriages in the United States ends in divorce, you can beat the odds by resolving this Valentine’s Day to work on improving your marriage.Photo by Clare Bloomfield / Freedigitalphotos.net Instead of letting your arguments spiral out of control, vow to use fair fighting techniques and put your differences behind you before you go to bed at night. Here are some tips to get you started: Believe in your ability to change as a couple. When you make a pact … Continue reading

Posted in intimate partner | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Overcoming Stress on Valentine’s Day

Couples today are dealing with huge stresses of all sorts – fears of economic meltdown, actual job loss, threats to safety and security, concerns about retirement finances, and, for Sandwiched Boomers, issues arising from children growing up and aging parents growing older. Partners rely on each other to help buffer the impact of these stresses – and, hopefully, to make coping with them a little easier. Studies have shown that for couples in love there are surges in dopamine, the chemical of pleasure, and in oxytocin, the hormone of bonding. … Continue reading

Posted in aging parents, intimate partner, parenting kids, your self | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment