Oxytocin is a hormone that is sometimes called the "love hormone" or "happy hormone" because it is responsible for some of the positive emotions you feel during attraction, sexual desire, and bonding with others. It is produced by the hypothalamus, a small region at the base of your brain, and secreted by the nearby pituitary gland. Oxytocin plays an important role in reproduction, as it triggers labor and the release of breast milk in females, and helps move sperm in males.

Here are some of the ways oxytocin can affect your emotions and behavior:

• Trust: Oxytocin helps you feel trusting and generous, and can help you build trust and connection with others.
• Empathy: Oxytocin can increase your ability to feel empathy towards others.
• Positive relationship memories: Oxytocin can help you remember positive experiences with loved ones.
• Fidelity: Oxytocin has been linked to increased feelings of fidelity in romantic relationships.
• Positive communication: Oxytocin can improve communication and reduce conflict in relationships.
• Relaxation: Oxytocin has been shown to decrease stress and anxiety levels, and promote relaxation.
• Bonding: Oxytocin can help you bond with loved ones, and is released through touch, music, and exercise.

Oxytocin is just one of the four feel-good hormones, along with dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. It can be increased through simple acts of touch, such as giving someone a massage, cuddling, making love, or giving someone a hug.