This article was written by Sanctuary member, Karen Burke. Interesting topic! I hope you enjoy it too! Nancy
MEN ARE FROM MARS, WOMEN FROM VENUS
EVEN WHEN IT COMES TO HANDLING STRESS –
One Hormone Plays an Important Role
Studies have shown that men and women handle stress differently and the hormone oxytocin most likely plays a role in this difference.
Oxytocin is a hormone naturally secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain. It is present in both men and women and released during sex. This release triggers “caring” behavior which is why oxytocin is often referred to as the “cuddle hormone”. Oxytocin is also the hormone that starts uterine contractions during labor and stimulates the release of milk during breastfeeding.
However, recent studies support the idea that oxytocin is also part of a response to stress, especially stress that is related to social separation and isolation. Because this ‘tend and befriend’ hormone comes into play during the best and worst times, it has been suggested that it has a dual purpose. When it is operating during times of low stress, oxytocin physiologically rewards those who maintain good social bonds with a feeling of well-being. But when it is released during times of high social stress or pain, it may lead people to seek out more (and enjoyable) social contacts.
This may explain why females are more likely to deal with stress by nurturing those around them and reaching out to others. Women often seek support to talk out their emotional experiences and to process what is happening. Men on the other hand, with smaller amounts of oxytocin, often rely on the “fight or flight” response when it comes to stress – they either bottle it up and escape or fight back.
We have always known that men and women have different physiologies and now it is becoming more apparent that men and women have different stress triggers as well as different ways of handling stress. For women – who tend to stress from inadequate self-maintenance and from the crush of too many social and familial pressures – sharing time and experiences with other women away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life may be the perfect remedy in dealing with stress.
Places In Time Farm and Fiber Arts Studio offers women a place to relax and recharge with kindred spirits. Take a class, schedule a pampering relaxation massage – or just enjoy the back-to-nature, nurturing environment. Places In Time, located in southern Medina County near Seville, offers classes in Fiber Arts, Domestic Arts and Holistic Living, as well as Relaxation Massages and monthly Book Club Discussions. For more information contact Karen at 330-948-5396 or placesintimefarm@verizon.net. Website: www.placesintimefarm.com.
