Weinstein D, et al. (2016). Group music performance causes elevated pain thresholds and social bonding in small and large groups of singers. Though you may absolutely not want one, a long hug after an argument with a loved one, lasting 20 seconds, will trigger maximum release of Oxytocin (as well as Serotonin, the mood stabilising and happiness hormone) making you feel closer, reducing stress and telling your brain that you feel safe and loved again. Mending the bond that felt broken with the warm, fuzzy, strengthening glue of Oxytocin.

Krishnakumar D, et al. (2015). Meditation and yoga can modulate brain mechanisms that affect behavior and anxiety—a modern scientific perspective. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Petersson M, et al. (2017). Oxytocin and cortisol levels in dog owners and their dogs are associated with behavioral patterns: an exploratory study. But what if instead of just waiting for hormones to be released when we do something that makes us feel good, we did things to intentionally trigger them; to motivate us to have healthier habits in our work, leisure time and relationships? At certain times of your cycle and when hormones change in your body, the hormones can affect many different things within the body such as brain function, libido, appetite, pain tolerance, acne, metabolism, anxiety levels and much, much more - the list really is endless. Why is cycle syncing beneficial?Saanijoki T, et al. (2022). Aerobic fitness is associated with cerebral μ-opioid receptor activation in healthy humans. There are different areas to consider when cycle syncing. "Firstly, it's about getting to know you! Working out what works for you, as well as why you feel the way you do. It also takes a bit of diary management and changes to your lifestyle, exercise routine and nutrition. Obtaining knowledge about what's happening at various hormonal stages can help you enhance many aspects of your life. For example, understanding when is the best time to make the most out of your workout and when you should take a rest and focus on rest." Some people will really see the benefit from trying cycle syncing? Field T, et al. (2009). Cortisol decreases and serotonin and dopamine increase following massage therapy.

Oxytocin: Often called the “ love hormone,” oxytocin is essential for childbirth, breastfeeding, and strong parent-child bonding. It can also help promote trust, empathy, and bonding in relationships. Levels generally increase with physical affection. Bolbol-Haghighi N, et al. (2016). Effect of massage therapy on duration of labour: A randomized controlled trial. What if instead of just waiting for hormones to be released when we do something that makes us feel good, we did things to intentionally trigger them

Dopamine: Known as the “feel-good” hormone, dopamine is a neurotransmitter that’s an important part of your brain’s reward system. It’s associated with pleasurable sensations, along with learning, memory, and more. Serotonin: This hormone and neurotransmitter helps regulate your mood as well as your sleep, appetite, digestion, learning ability, and memory.

Yorks DM, et al. (2017). Effects of group fitness classes on stress and quality of life of medical students. The feeling of blissed-out high-energy and satisfaction after going for a jog? That would be Endorphins doing their thing, reducing your perception of pain and heightening feelings of pleasure.Endorphins: These hormones are your body’s natural pain reliever, which your body produces in response to stress or discomfort. Levels may also increase when you engage in reward-producing activities such as eating, working out, or having sex.