"Perfect Love casts out all Fear"
Updated: 2 days ago
When we are anxious or stressed we have high levels of cortisol (stress hormone) flooding our brain and bodies. Cortisol retracts and diminishes in the presence of the oxytocin. Where do we get oxytocin from? It is the hormone that is associated with the feeling of love.
That's why stroking your pet dog or receiving a hug from a loved one makes us feel less anxious.
How can we create oxytocin if we don't have access or feel we can't access love from others? That's where self compassion comes in. By slowing down in an anxious moment, and taking the time to think about what you need, how difficult it is for you "right now" and offering yourself some slack and a kind word, maybe even a self hug, you can actively reduce the cortisol in your system and reduce your anxiety.
Kristen Neff talks
well on the power of self compassion; have a look ...
... and give it a go...
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