Research: Oxytocin Enhances Spirituality

Oxytocin – a polypeptide hormone produced mainly by the hypothalamus and stored in the pituitary gland – gives greater sense of spirituality than a placebo, according to new research published in the journal Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience. Oxytocin supports spirituality. Image credit: Duke University. Oxytocin, sometimes called the love hormone or the cuddle hormone, is a chemical associated with pair bonding, including mother-infant and male-female bonds, increased paternal involvement with children, and monogamy in certain rodents. In humans, oxytocin is released through touch, warmth, and affectionate connection. Recent research has highlighted oxytocin’s possible role in promoting pro-social behaviors such as trust, empathy, and openness to social risk. To test how oxytocin might influence spirituality, a team of researchers led by Dr. Van Cappellen of Duke University and the University…


Link to Full Article: Research: Oxytocin Enhances Spirituality

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