Zooming into some feel-good chemicals

A quick note on one of the 3Ps: Positive Interactions. From an evolutionary perspective, we humans are better off as a tribe than as individuals. That is why, as far back as early man, we've been given chemical rewards for interacting with each other.

As well as serotonin, positive interactions with other people give us a dose of oxytocin, the 'love drug' which helps us feel bonded with each other. It also, interestingly, is a calming drug and gives us a sense of trust and safety.

The trouble is, at the moment, it's pretty difficult to have some of those human interactions. Staying at home and staying safe means we're missing out on some really important human contact. I've been feeling it this week as I've been off work and, of course, not seeing people outside of my household!

So I started my weekend on Zoom with my best friend from my school days. We're separated by 1000 miles anyway, but we decided we needed more than our normal WhatsApp chats and so agreed to start the weekend having a chinwag over Zoom.

I had my morning cup of tea, my friend had her ritual coffee. I got to see her gorgeous new kitchen, and we chatted away as if I was sitting with her there at her kitchen table. 90 minutes later we went off into our respective weekends full of happy chemicals having laughed and smiled together.

So, this is just a reminder that though, yes, there are circumstances going on beyond our control, we can take control in some areas and carve out the time and space for mentally healthy action. How will you get your positive interaction today? What small thing could you do differently today to get you what you need?