In our fast-paced world, we are all looking for ways to keep the body in balance and manage the stress of daily life. Oxytocin is a key hormone for well-being and there is an unexpected way that a particular part of your self-care routine can boost well-being (in more ways than one!). 

Understanding oxytocin

Oxytocin is a hormone and neurotransmitter produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. It is often referred to as the "love hormone" or "cuddle hormone" due to its role in social bonding, sexual activity, childbirth, and postnatal parental behaviors. Oxytocin is known to play a role in: 

• Social Bonding: Oxytocin promotes social interactions and bonding. It is released in response to touch, warmth, and other positive social stimuli, enhancing feelings of trust and attachment.

• Stress Reduction: Oxytocin has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels. It can counteract the effects of cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.

• Emotional Well-Being: Higher levels of oxytocin are associated with feelings of happiness, reduced fear, and increased emotional stability.

• Physical Health: Oxytocin can lower blood pressure, improve heart health, reduce pain, and even boost the immune system by reducing stress-induced inflammation (click here for our blog post on inflammaging). 

The skin's role in oxytocin release

Our largest organ, the skin is rich with sensory receptors that respond to touch and pressure. When we engage in skin-to-skin, tactile stimulation, these receptors send signals to the brain to release oxytocin and reduce cortisol. Surprisingly, this effect is markedly strong when it comes to low intensity, surface-level stimulation of the skin, such as through the use and application of a sensorial body oil.

Body oils vs. body lotions

With a body oil incorporating into the skin differently than a more lightweight body lotion, the sensory receptors get continuously stimulated as the body oil absorbs, generating a prolonged release of oxytocin and general wellness boost.

Take the opportunity to give yourself a well-deserved pampering, massaging in the body oil for an even stronger sensory receptor stimulation. Using slow, deliberate strokes, focus on areas that hold tension, such as your shoulders, neck, and lower back. This encourages mindfulness and relaxation, allowing you to connect more deeply with your body. 

Mindful beauty example

Beyond the positive oxytocin effect, LXMI's Nourishing Body Oil is formulated with plant-based, nourishing ingredients that provide deep moisture.

Full of restorative, barrier-supporting botanical extracts, it delivers Vitamin A, B, C, D, E, F + K, powerful antioxidants, flavonoids & minerals, and barrier-repairing essential Omegas for a smoother, baby soft skin - without leaving a greasy feeling. The luxurious texture and natural aroma enhance the sensory experience, making each application a little moment of mindfulness.

Incorporating a body oil like the Nourishing Body Oil into your routine is more than just a skincare choice — it's a surprisingly simple step towards enhancing your overall well-being. It can't stop life from happening, but stimulating the release of oxytocin through our daily habits is one simple, yet powerful tool for managing stress, supporting resilience, and mindfully connecting to ourselves.