Would you peg me as an “acroyoga” guy?
It might surprise you that I’ve recently gotten really into this sport and it turns out that I’m really good at it (you can often see it on my Instagram stories).
First, it actually requires a lot of strength, and I’ve been able to overcome some bad genes to really optimize my strength.
But, it’s also a very social sport where you have to have a good rapport and trust level with your partner. After all, it does require me to spin someone around in the air on my hands and feet.
I’ve even been able to do acroyoga with some first timers and it turns out really well. For that, I can actually thank my genes.
Empathy, Oxytocin and the OXTR Gene
Oxytocin, sometimes called the love hormone, is vital for social bonding and empathy.
The more oxytocin we have and the more active our oxytocin receptors are, the more likely we are to feel for others and to respond with altruism and generosity.
The OXTR gene provides instructions for making receptors that oxytocin latches onto.
When oxytocin latches onto these receptors, it signals our brain to amplify feelings of trust, empathy, and social bonding. It’s like flipping a switch that lights up our emotional world, enabling us to connect with others on a profound level.
There are a few SNPs of the OXTR gene that decrease the number of oxytocin receptors you have available, and also how well they function – leading you to become less empathetic.
I’m generally known to be an empathetic person, and my genes reflect that.
If you have low oxytocin levels, it’s best to look at the recommendations to increase oxytocin so that you can develop empathy that will lead to healthier personal and professional relationships.
The recommendations for you might include probiotics or orange blossom aromatherapy, but there are a total of 30+ recommendations that can help increase oxytocin levels, all prioritized in the SelfDecode report.