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Issue #41: LOVE.

Issue #41: LOVE.

the hormone of LOVE, hugs + high fives, intimacy + romance, getting to know your breasts, cycle synching and hair LOVE.

Feb 14, 2025
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INTERWOVXN
INTERWOVXN
Issue #41: LOVE.
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“In the flush of love’s light, we dare be brave. And suddenly we see that love costs all we are, and will ever be. Yet it is only love which sets us free.”

~ Maya Angelou


OXYTOCIN: the hormone of LOVE + CONNECTION

Last week, we talked about cortisol, one of our stress hormones. This week, let’s talk about LOVE.

In 2012, five years into practicing acupuncture, I (Rebecca) had the honor of going to Bali to participate in a training that was being done as a pop-up clinic to support women and children in the community. As part of that incredible experience, some of us were also able to volunteer at Bumi Sehat, the birth center founded by Robin Lim who was named CNN Hero of the Year the year prior. It was transformative in the way I view care, love, and community.

One particular example that will stay with me forever was their approach to love in moving through difficulty. As a women’s labor stalled and there was concern of needing to move things along for the safety of mom and baby (and in addition to acupuncture and position changes), the room took a break… for LOVE. The staff, volunteers, family, and mom paused to give hugs, words of affirmation and kindness to one another as collective support for this birthing mother.

This break for love was a deliberate effort to encourage the release of oxytocin—the hormone that plays a vital role in bonding, love, AND the progression of labor. (Some may be familiar with it in its synthetic form as Pitocin, often used to induce or speed up labor in hospital settings). It was a powerful reminder of the body's innate wisdom and power when supported by care and community…a reminder that love is a force for progress, resilience, and healing. Whether in childbirth, self-love, romantic patnership, friendship, or community, intentional acts of care build the foundation for a meaningful and joyful life.

What is Oxytocin?

Oxytocin is a hormone and neurotransmitter produced in the brain’s hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. It plays a vital role in bonding, trust, and emotional intimacy. Beyond its well-known function during childbirth and breastfeeding, oxytocin supports social bonding, reduces stress, and helps cultivate feelings of empathy and connection.

Why is Oxytocin Called the Hormone of Love?

This powerful hormone is released during moments of emotional and physical intimacy. Think about how you feel after a deep conversation, a warm hug, or sexual intimacy—that’s oxytocin at work. It helps strengthen social ties, deepen trust, and even improve mood. Check out this episode

Ways to Boost Oxytocin for Different Types of Love

1. Loving Yourself: The Foundation of All Love

Self-love is essential for fostering healthy connections with others. When you nurture compassion and care for yourself, it creates a ripple effect that enhances all your relationships.

  • Physical Touch: Give yourself a gentle massage or apply lotion mindfully. Habit stack…add in your breast self care. Getting to know our breasts can be one of the most important things we do for our health. By looking at them and feeling them regularly, we establish our baseline or "normal" allowing us to better detect changes as they come up–whether it be pain and fullness that accompany shifts during the menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause, or new masses that should be evaluated to rule out cancer. The more we know our body, the better we can care for ourselves.

    Breast.Health WOVXN Wellness Guide
    18.9MB ∙ PDF file
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    Download
  • Masturbation: Sexual pleasure is a natural way to release oxytocin, enhancing relaxation and self-connection.

  • Mindfulness Practices: Engage in deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to cultivate presence and self-awareness.

  • Affirmations: Speak kind, affirming words to yourself to foster self-love or try giving yourself a high five.

  • Celebrate your Wins: Take time to give yourself credit for all you do- whether big or small as they all make a difference.

2. Strengthening Bonds with Your Partner or a New Love

Oxytocin can deepen intimacy and connection in romantic relationships.

  • Physical Affection: Hug, kiss, hold hands, or simply sit close together.

  • Eye Contact: Maintain meaningful eye contact to foster emotional connection.

  • Shared Experiences: Try new activities together to build lasting memories.

  • Sexual Intimacy: Orgasm is one of the most potent triggers for oxytocin release.

  • Active Listening: Give your partner your full attention during conversations.

3. Deepening Bonds with Kids, Family, and Friends

Love isn’t just for romantic relationships—oxytocin can help you build stronger connections with family and friends.

  • Hugs and Physical Touch: Hug your children, friends, and family members often. How to hug optimize the flow of mood-boosting chemicals according to science.

  • Quality Time: Engage in meaningful activities, like cooking together or having game nights.

  • Acts of Kindness: Small gestures, like writing a thoughtful note, can boost oxytocin.

  • Laughter and Singing: Watch a funny movie, share jokes, or sing in a group to bond through joy.

  • Express Gratitude: Let loved ones know you appreciate them.

  • High Fives (again;): An interesting study that showed a high five was more motivating to kids than words of praise.

The Ripple Effect of Oxytocin

When you actively seek ways to boost oxytocin, you not only nurture your own well-being but also positively impact those around you. Love, connection, and compassion are transformative and oxytocin is our body’s way of saying love matters—and it’s always within reach.


We are grateful to share support this season with

Are you seeking more meaning and joy in your life, but feel weighed down by anxiety, depression, grief, or unresolved trauma? You do not have to take this journey alone. The skilled, compassionate therapists at CLARA Healing Institute deeply understand the complexities of women’s mental health across the entire lifespan and use a collaborative, multi-faceted, and holistic approach to address mental, physical, and spiritual health.

Brittany Runaas, Psychotherapist and Art Therapist
Brittany has current openings for women who want to heal from trauma, manage life transitions, reconnect with creativity in their lives, and improve their relationship with their bodies.

Kay Bollmus, Psychotherapist
Kay has current openings for women of all ages going through life transitions, including divorce, relationships with adult children, and career and identity pivots.

To learn more and schedule a free consultation, visit www.clarahealinginstitute.com or call 414.573.6891. Mention Interwovxn for 10% discount on your initial assessment session.


This week’s 5 Senses Friday comes to you from Sarah of Girl Behind the Shears. There are few people we trust more than those who do our hair and it has been great to have a hair artist who mirrors where I (Rebecca) am in life from motherhood to perimenopause (and all the hair changes between;)

TASTE: Orgain Plant Based Protein Powder. I like to start every morning off with a decadent protein shake. It keeps me full and gives me the energy that I need to be on my feet whether it’s taking care of my two young boys or working behind the chair at the salon. I have learned so much recently about getting enough protein as a 42 year-old woman. My go to is chocolate protein powder, almond milk, a frozen banana, a handful of spinach, a scoop of ice, Chia seeds, and 2 tablespoons of nut butter.

SEE: Sustainable Sun Hats. I see my hair is dull and brittle. During perimenopause estrogen (hydrates hair) levels can decline and cause hair to become drier and weaker. There are many solutions but let’s talk about keeping hair out of the sun. A great hat will not only cover and protect your hair but can also protect your scalp and skin. I love finding stylish, functional options, especially from women-owned brands. My favorite is my marbled fabric reversible Niffich wide brimmed hat…insert heart eyes emoji!

SMELL: Milk Anti-Frizz Leave-in Nourishing Treatment. As a hairstylist, my clients are constantly looking at my hair as inspiration. One of my favorite products to use on my own hair is Milk by Reverie. They are a California based company and are cruelty free, environmentally conscious, vegan, and gluten-free. This product leaves my hair, feeling stronger and smoother, and most importantly it smells amazing. To me the scents are so calming. Rose, bourbon vanilla, and sandalwood are just a few that make up this product.

HEAR: Barre Playlist. When I am not at the salon or hanging with my family, I teach a ballet barre class once a month. I love the combo of ballet, yoga, and pilates. The music I pick drives the class not only for rhythm but to help push through hard moves. I have made several playlists on Spotify. I tend to gravitate towards 80’s, 90’s pop songs…think Whitney Houston, Cyndi Lauper, Berlin, and Young MC.

TOUCH: Scalp Massager/Shampoo Brush.
A healthy scalp can produce strong, shiny, healthy hair. I just started using a scalp brush and am in love. If your favorite part of the salon experience is the scalp massage, you can have a little bit of that in your own home. The scalp brush, exfoliates, increases circulation, distributes product, and is just really relaxing. Creating time for myself to enjoy small indulgences makes a huge difference in my life.


What is appealing to your senses right now? What are you reading? watching? cooking? wearing? loving? obsessed with? We would love to share some of your picks in future newsletters!

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INTIMACY + season 6

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to take a look back at Season 6 of the podcast! Our conversations centered on intimacy and sexual health. From friendship and partnership to pleasure and pelvic health, we had great conversations on connection to ourselves, our body, and to others. Here are a few episodes:

Sexual Health + Intimacy

S6 E2: Genyne + Dr. Mia Cowan

S6 E2: Genyne + Dr. Mia Cowan

Interwovxn
·
May 21, 2024
Read full story
S6 E3: Cherie Katt, Sexual Health Therapist

S6 E3: Cherie Katt, Sexual Health Therapist

Interwovxn
·
May 28, 2024
Read full story

Pelvic Health

S6 E4: Dr. Emily Lombard + Dr. Lauryn Beecher

S6 E4: Dr. Emily Lombard + Dr. Lauryn Beecher

Interwovxn
·
June 4, 2024
Read full story

Intimacy + Parenthood

S6 E8: Theresa + Coral + Erica

S6 E8: Theresa + Coral + Erica

Interwovxn
·
July 3, 2024
Read full story

Intimacy + Fertility

S6 E9: Rebecca + Caitlin + Cherie

S6 E9: Rebecca + Caitlin + Cherie

Interwovxn
·
July 24, 2024
Read full story


CYCLE synching: LOVE edition

Did you know your menstrual cycle is a powerful guide for nurturing not only your body but your relationships too? From self-love to romantic partnerships and even community connections, syncing your love life with your cycle can create a rhythm that fosters deeper understanding and connection. The phases of your cycle offer a natural blueprint for when to rest, connect, and thrive socially — all while honoring your body’s innate wisdom.

Continue reading for tips on how to approach each phase of your cycle, modern romance and love stories, and weekly writing prompts.

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