In reality, this feeling is generated by changes in brain neurotransmitters, specifically the production of oxytocin, commonly known as the "love hormone". Therefore, habits that increase oxytocin levels will make you feel happier each day. Furthermore, many of these habits will also bring joy to those around you. Learn in the following article what oxytocin is and how it is regulated by good deeds and relationships with others.

Oxytocin is one of the four happiness hormones, alongside serotonin, dopamine and endorphins. It is also known as the "love hormone" because it is closely associated with social, couple and family relationships, trust, romantic attachment and sexual arousal, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

On the other hand, two main functions of oxytocin are stimulating uterine contractions during labor to facilitate childbirth and stimulating lactation after birth. The hormone is also responsible for creating a strong bond between mother and newborn.

Acts of altruism or generosity can make you happy through several mechanisms.

Firstly, they are associated with an increase in oxytocin production, which we know to be one of the happiness hormones. It enhances mood by counteracting the effects of cortisol (the stress hormone). In turn, oxytocin triggers the production of serotonin and dopamine, as described by psychiatrist Eva Ritvo in the article "The Neuroscience of Giving".

Interestingly, oxytocin production makes you want to help others even more, according to the same source.

Another mechanism by which generosity makes you happy is the response or feedback you receive from those around you. The joy, satisfaction and gratitude of the person in front of you directly influence your well-being due to the mirror neuron system. Essentially, the positive feelings you generate are reflected back to you.

According to psychologist Jeremy Sutton in the article "Mirror Neurons and the Neuroscience of Empathy", mirror neurons cause us to unconsciously imitate certain actions or behaviors we observe in those around us. Besides actions, we process their emotions, sensations and experiences as if we were experiencing them ourselves. In other words, the mirror neuron system generates a psychological state similar to that of the person in front of us, making us share the same experience. For example, if someone smiles at us, we will automatically smile back.

Positive feelings are also linked to empathy. When you understand and help those around you, you put yourself in their shoes and learn to view things from other perspectives. This way, you start to better understand your own emotions and build close interpersonal relationships based on trust. All of these can make you feel more fulfilled.

Acts of altruism and generosity to increase oxytocin production:

• Helping: There are numerous forms of help you can offer those around you. You can help a neighbor with their groceries, assist an elderly person cross the street, aid a friend in organizing an important event or moving to a new home, help your partner with household chores, repairs, renovations or perform any other kind gesture that brightens someone’s day. All these are free but very valuable to others;

• Donating: Another habit that increases oxytocin production is donating to those in need. You can donate money, items, clothes, toys or food. There are many foundations that handle the distribution of donations;

• Giving gifts: It doesn’t have to be a special occasion to give gifts or surprises to loved ones. For example, you can give symbolic gifts or flowers;

• Cooking for someone special: According to Healthline, cooking for someone and eating together are methods to boost oxytocin production. Additionally, sharing food with others creates stronger social bonds;

• Give or ask for a massage: As presented in the study "Self-soothing behaviors with particular reference to oxytocin release induced by non-noxious sensory stimulation" (Kerstin Uvnäs-Moberg and colleagues), both the person receiving and giving a massage experience an increase in oxytocin production. This has a range of positive effects, such as reducing cortisol, blood pressure, stress and anxiety, and improving mood;

• Hugging your loved ones more often: Hugging is a form of physical intimacy that triggers oxytocin production. Therefore, maintain close contact with your partner or other loved ones. Even offering a smile can have a positive effect on the self due to the mirror neuron system.

According to Healthline, there are additional ways to enhance oxytocin production and optimize your well-being:

• Good relationships with others: Humans are social beings, and oxytocin is closely linked to positive interactions with those around you. Spend quality time with your friends, try new experiences and create unique memories with each of them;

• Emotional connection: Communicate openly with loved ones and frequently express your feelings, affection, admiration and care;

• Empathetic listening: Be a good listener and try to empathize with your conversational partners. Active listening is key to a strong social connection, which in turn affects oxytocin levels;

• Couple intimacy: An active sex life, especially in a romantic relationship, is one of the most effective ways to increase oxytocin production. Additionally, experiencing orgasm enhances this effect;

• Time spent with pets: Oxytocin is not only about human relationships but also positive interactions with other beings. Thus, in moments of sadness, you start to feel better after playing with a dog;

• Music: Listen to your favorite music more often, do karaoke or write a song;

• Meditation: Connect deeply with yourself through meditation practices such as yoga or mindfulness.

In conclusion, oxytocin is crucial for our well-being. An active social life, close relationships with others, kindness, generosity and altruism are the main factors that influence the level of this hormone.

Other habits that increase oxytocin production