Research shows that many of us have developed an emotional affinity with our smartphone which has a reassuring presence in our daily life (you can check out a couple of thought provoking scientific sources at the end of this article).
Interacting with our phone triggers the release of oxytocin also known as the “love hormone” or “cuddle hormone”.
Could oxytocin be playing cupid for us and our tech?
It certainly has a role in establishing and maintaining relationships and the release of this connection hormone increases in the body when we engage in activities that make us feel loved and valued, giving us a feeling of comfort and social connection.
Let’s pause for a moment.
Simply hold your phone in your hand, without using it.
You can choose to close your eyes. Do you feel a sense of attachment with your smartphone?
*** ❤️ My dare to you this weekend ❤️***
I invite you to explore ways to boost your “Love hormone” naturally and tech-free.
Try some of the following and add your own:
Hug someone for at least 20 seconds
Pat your favourite animal friend
Hold a hand (it can be your own)
Spend time with friends and be present
Call a loved one and listen
Laugh
Make eye contact
Listen to your favourite music, sing or dance
Speak words of kindness, compassion, appreciation
……………..……..
“With our time and presence we give love. Simple.” - Kim John Payne
I'd love to hear how you got on with this #dare, do share your experience in the comment section!
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Image credit: Photo by Melissa Askew on Unsplash
References:
Fullwood, C. et al. (2017) ‘My virtual friend: A qualitative analysis of the attitudes and experiences of Smartphone users: Implications for Smartphone attachment’, Computers in Human Behavior, 75, pp. 347–355.
Melumad, S. and Pham, M. (2020) ‘The Smartphone as a Pacifying Technology’, Journal of Consumer Research, 47.
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