1. The Brain of a Father
Research published in “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences” reveals that changes occur in the brain when a man becomes a father. These changes happen in regions of the brain that regulate emotion, motivation, decision making, empathy and social understanding. The neural (nervous system) circuit in the brain in response to children is the same in both mothers and fathers, dispelling the notion of “maternal instinct”; it is a “parental instinct” that is activated when parents care for their children. Fathers specifically have an increase in the area of the brain that regulates long term planning. While the mother is more emotional and ‘cuddly’ with the child, fathers think more about their future and what is necessary to have the best and brightest. The brain of the father enhances our lives by always looking to and preparing for our future; facilitating us discovering and fulfilling our purpose in life.
2. The Mind of a Father
Research shows that when a man becomes a father, there are hormone changes that take place, just like in the mother’ specifically, a hormone known as the “love hormone” called oxytocin. In women, oxytocin increases dramatically during labor and breastfeeding. But men’s oxytocin levels increase also when caring for their children. This enhances trust, bonding and cooperation in groups. Unlike women, men’s increased oxytocin levels encourage defensive aggression towards outside groups. There is scientific evidence to support the role of “Protector” for the father. I know I’ve witnessed it my entire life. Even though I am well into my 40s, my Daddy is still very protective of me. According to him, “Until I go in my grave, you will be my baby”. I’ve always felt extremely blessed by the demonstration of his pure love that has provided me with a sense of safety and security that has carried me throughout life.
3. The Calm of a Father
Increased oxytocin decreases cortisol level, our stress hormone, and results in stress regulation and a decrease in subjective stress ratings. Ever noticed when something is going on in a family how the mother is so frantic while the father calms everyone down? A father’s mindset is often the calm in a storm and a shelter from the rain of chaos and confusion.
4. The Cooperation with a Father
Fathers are the protectors and strength of our society. The responsibility of women is to support them with love, cooperation and encouragement. This Father’s Day, I celebrate my Daddy and the men that have been instrumental in my growth, development and balance. To Ted Clay, Ralph Jackson, Alfred Clay and Rick Jackson; these men have been the pillars and foundations of who you know as Dr. Michelle today. Celebrate and uplift the men in your lives. Facilitate them being great fathers and contributing to the betterment of our world through the next generation. Women, do not block or discourage this process. There is a saying, “Two are better than one and a three-fold cord is not easily broken”.
If you want to be able to plan and strategize your next steps for wellness but lack motivation, clarity, focus and just feel stuck, it could be a result of stress overwhelming you. To begin the process of releasing stress and tension, download your complimentary audiobook, "10 Minutes to Tranquility". This audiobook offers simple and natural ways to release tension and come into your place of calm and tranquility. 10 minutes is all it takes!
Until next time, be well!
Happy Father’s Day!
Yours in Health,
Dr. Michelle Clay is a speaker, best-selling author & Holistic Physician specializing in the release and management of stress and its associated symptoms simply and naturally. Through her company FREELIFE7, Dr. Michelle enhances lives by harmonizing all dimensions of wellness through wellness coaching programs, online courses and seminars to help stressed out and burned out professionals, leaders and exhausted executives discover their sense of calm, clarity and confidence to live a FREE life on purpose with passion. She is frequently called upon to give a refreshing holistic perspective on ways to release stress, recharge health, the mind-body connection refresh mindset. She shares her knowledge via her YouTube Channel with “Mindset Monday” and “Wednesday’s Wellness Wisdom Pearls”. These video segments highlight how to shift mindset to ensure wellness success.