Parents, We need some Oxytocin. I have been known to say to Anita Grossmann McGinnis, “I need some oxytocin.” What I really mean is, “I need a hug.” Oxytocin is called the “cuddle hormone.” It apparently reduces stress and increases joy and happiness, but it also gives us that sense of significant attachment that we all need. (I have also discovered that the synthetic form of this hormone is called “Pitocin.” If that sounds familiar, it's what doctors use to induce labor. On second thought, maybe I don’t need oxytocin!!! I think 4 adult kids may be enough!) Our body produces this hormone when we hug someone, that’s one of the reasons relationship experts say we need at least 12 hugs a day to thrive. So, if loved ones are near you, give them a hug, attach and connect, let them know you love them no matter what. If loved ones are not near, the gift of oxytocin can also come from petting an animal, holding a baby, or taking care of someone’s or something's needs. This can be an especially hard time for those who are single or isolated for health reasons to get some oxytocin from other people, pets or peds. Hugs are extremely risky and kids, pets, and serving other people may not be a safe option either. I hurt for those who feel disconnected and unattached at this time.
The good news is God gives us all this gift of oxytocin, even if there is no other creature close enough to connect with. The Creator Himself gives us a satisfying dose of the attachment hormone when we connect with Him in a meaningful way through Songs, Prayer, reading His Word, Communion, and other forms of Worship. In Jesus’ longest recorded prayer, He prays for, among other things, our attachment with Him, an attachment so close we are actually IN Him, IN The Heavenly Father and IN attachment with each other. He says, "The glory which You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one, just as We are one; I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and loved them, even as You have loved Me.” John 17:22-23 (NASB) This connection is so real to us spiritually that it translates to our whole being. When it happens… you guessed it… we get an oxytocin bath that relieves our stress, brings us joy, and gives us that sense of connection that we all need... which we, in turn can reflect back to Him and those around us. And “if two or more are gathered IN His Name” even virtually, it can help connect us to Him and our Christian brothers and sisters even if they are too far away for a hug.
Hang in there people! God is with us! I’m praying for you all!
