Summer has come to an end, and with it, relaxing holidays and time to rest and unwind. However, for many people, returning to routine and work responsibilities can trigger stress and anxiety, known as “post-holiday stress”. In this article, we explore how oxytocin, the famous “love hormone”, can play a key role in post-holiday stress, helping to mitigate stress and promote a sense of well-being and calm.
What is oxytocin and how does it work in the body?
Oxytocin is a hormone and neuropeptide produced in the hypothalamus, a region of the brain. This hormone is released from the posterior pituitary gland, and its main function is related to social interactions and emotional behaviour.
In addition, it has broad implications for overall health, adaptation, development, stress response, reproduction and social behaviour, not to mention its role as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Oxytocin and its role in stress regulation
Oxytocin not only plays a crucial role in childbirth and lactation, but also significantly influences the body’s response to stress. When oxytocin levels rise, a reduction in cortisol levels—known as the stress hormone—has been observed. This process contributes to a decreased perception of stress and promotes a sense of calm and relaxation.
Stress, defined as a state of threatened homeostasis in response to experiences that exceed an individual’s coping capacity, is a complex response to physical, emotional and psychological challenges. In contrast, resilience—the ability to successfully recover from psychological and physical adversity—is influenced by oxytocin.
Oxytocin and anxiety
Scientific literature reports oxytocin release following stressful stimuli such as physical exertion, psychological stress in women, anxiety, depression or distress, as well as during the Trier Social Stress Test, which involves public speaking and mental arithmetic tasks performed in front of an audience. This release leads to a reduction in cortisol levels and a return to calm.
To exert this stress-modulating effect, oxytocin acts through its receptor (OXTR), which is widely distributed in the brain.
Post-holiday stress and the importance of oxytocin
Post-holiday stress is a common phenomenon affecting many people when they return to daily routines after a period of rest. During holidays, people often enjoy more time with loved ones, moments of happiness and relaxation, which can foster stronger emotional bonding. Upon returning to work and routine, there may be a decrease in oxytocin release, contributing to increased feelings of anxiety and stress.
Factors and predisposition to post-holiday stress
Beyond environmental influences and individual experiences, genetic factors also play an important role in how people respond to stress, including post-holiday stress. Scientific research has identified that certain genetic variations may be linked to greater susceptibility to stress and anxiety. Variations in the OXTR gene, which encodes the oxytocin receptor, may be associated with a higher predisposition to experiencing stress and difficulties in managing it, influencing how individuals face post-holiday challenges.
These genetic factors do not determine a person’s destiny regarding stress response, but they can significantly impact vulnerability to experiencing higher levels of post-holiday stress. It is important to recognise that stress is a complex and multifactorial response, and genetic factors interact with other aspects of life—such as environment and lifestyle—to shape how stressful situations are managed.
Ways to promote oxytocin release to combat post-holiday stress
Fortunately, there are several ways to stimulate oxytocin release and combat post-holiday stress. Here are some effective strategies:
- Social interactions: Spend time with family, friends and loved ones. Sharing meaningful moments with close people can increase oxytocin levels and improve mood.
- Hugs and physical contact: Hugs release oxytocin and can reduce stress. Do not hesitate to embrace your loved ones and enjoy the healing power of physical contact.
- Practising gratitude: Cultivating a daily gratitude practice—at the beginning or end of the day—can benefit emotional health. Psychologist Judith T. Moskowitz recommends this practice to increase positive emotions and, consequently, oxytocin levels.
- Physical exercise: Regular physical activity, such as yoga, dancing or hiking, can increase oxytocin levels and help manage stress, anxiety and fear.
- Meditation and mindfulness: Meditation and mindfulness practices have been shown to increase oxytocin levels and reduce anxiety.
Conclusions
On the journey to overcoming post-holiday stress, oxytocin emerges as a vital ally, promoting calm and emotional well-being. However, individual uniqueness must not be overlooked. Personalised health takes centre stage, recognising that each person responds differently to stress. By adopting strategies tailored to personal needs—from practising gratitude to engaging in physical activity—and seeking professional support, the door opens to more effective and personalised management of post-holiday stress. In a diverse and ever-changing world, embracing personalised health becomes the path to resilience, adaptation and lasting well-being.
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