I’m not a super hugger yet, but I’m working on it:) After coming across this interesting research, I’m definitely going to take it up a notch!! Oxytocin is a hormone that helps you relax, it reduces blood pressure and cortisol levels. Oxytocin increases pain thresholds, it has an anti- anxiety effect and it stimulates various types of positive social interactions. In addition, it promotes growth and healing. Oxytocin can be released by various types of sensory stimulation, for example by touch and warmth. Bloodstream levels of oxytocin have been shown to rise during massage and hugs!!! How amazing is that!!
- Hug a stranger (only if they are willing)
- Hug the ones you love every time you see them, the bigger the hug, the better
- Go for a massage
- Make time for sexy time with your partner
- Adopt an animal and take great care of them. Hug them too!!
1.5 cups almond milk
3 Tbsp raw cacao
1 Tbsp raw honey
2 tsp coconut butter
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger (or ¼ tsp fresh ginger root)
¼ tsp cardamom
Pinch ground cloves (or 4-5 whole cloves)
Pinch sea salt
How to make:
Warm almond milk over medium heat on the stove. Don’t let it come to a boil. Once you see the steam rising, the milk is hot enough. If using fresh ginger root and whole cloves, add to milk and allow to infuse for 5-10 minutes.
Remove the cloves and either whisk in all ingredients or add put everything into a blender and buzz until smooth and frothy.Top with coconut whip (optional)
Makes 1 delicious mug!
Find the Coconut Whip Recipe here!
