The Oxytocin Factor

Book excerpt: Swedish medical doctor and physiologist Moberg persuades readers to cultivate the pleasurable moments of life-when our bodies produce the hormone oxytocin, the ready-made healing nectar she asserts is responsible for inducing peace, growth and bonding. As the ying to the better-known yang adrenaline, which triggers feelings of stress and defense, oxytocin increases social memory (like a mother's recognition of her child), she says, inspires serenity, spurs physical growth and healing, lowers blood pressure and regulates digestion. In simple, flowing prose Moberg argues that both hormones are equally necessary parts of a balanced, healthy physiological system. She explains how oxytocin works to inspire calm and connection, and explores the various physical and mental routes to activate it. While Moberg admits that her assumptions are largely based on piecemeal evidence from experiments and observations of animals and humans, she provides a clear, lay introduction to a little-known hormone and a convincing case for further studies.