Childbirth wasn't going according to my birthing plan.

And after a bit of whinging from me, all of a sudden, my Scottish obstetrician, Dr Ferry (lounging in his tennis gear) dryly commented: "Stop complaining, would ya Blythe... they don't call it labour for nothin’ you know!"  🤯 🤯

But after a few angry pushes and the birth of my precious baby girl, came something magical - a natural high. A feeling of pure euphoria.
I later found out, this is our body's natural drug to make us ‘high’ - Oxytocin, or better known as the connection chemical. It’s released when we laugh, play, give, hug, and yes... you know what else 😉 Research shows that when people get a hit of oxytocin, they become kinder, more cooperative, more generous. In experiments, participants given oxytocin shared 80% more money. Looking for a pay rise? Get your boss's oxytocin flowing!

Oxytocin is the biological foundation of connection, and it's got a love-hate relationship with cortisol (the stress hormone). When we're chronically stressed, our oxytocin tanks, making us want to hide under a rock and avoid everyone. We can intentionally boost our connection through specific activities. Science-backed relationship hacking!

The secret to better relationships isn't just psychological - it's biochemical.

"Oxytocin and cortisol oppose each other. They are the two boxers in a ring or two kids on a seesaw. When one goes up, the other is forced to go down. The key is balancing the two."

Actionable Tips:

  1. 👁️ Make proper eye contact: Just like new lovers - look into each other's eyes (yes means no phone), practice mutual gazing 

  2. 🤚 Use appropriate touch: Engage in handshakes, high-fives, fist bumps, and brief shoulder touches when culturally suitable

  3. 🤗 Give five hugs daily: Research shows this for four weeks increases happiness and connection levels

  4. 😂 Laugh together regularly: Watch funny videos, share jokes, and engage in playful activities with others

  5. 💃 Dance and move with others: Physical movement together boosts oxytocin levels by 11%

  6. 📱 Watch heartwarming content: Even viewing emotional videos can trigger oxytocin release (think funny cat reel)

  7. 🎁 Practice acts of kindness: Generosity and giving naturally boost the connection chemical

  8. 🧘 Manage stress effectively: Since cortisol blocks oxytocin, prioritise stress management for better relationships

When did you last get a proper oxytocin hit at work, and how did it change your day?

You want to know more about how Blythe creates meaningful connections? ✨

👉 Check out Blythe’s LinkedIn profile to read more articles and blogs!