One of the most counterintuitive truths about oxytocin: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Oxytocin Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of oxytocin
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking oxytocin is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging oxytocin without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing oxytocin to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for oxytocin while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Oxytocin
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting oxytocin, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Oxytocin
Many people find that when they stop fighting oxytocin and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of oxytocin is partly the struggle against it.