Q: Hi Gilles, this is a technical question about serotonin. I know that the pineal gland stimulates the production of serotonin. And it is produced in the large intestine. So does Chi Nei Tsang enhance serotonin production? Does slowness also produce serotonin?
Gilles: Over 90% of serotonin is produced in the large intestine and the whole of the enteric nervous system connected to the large intestine. Yes, Chi Nei Tsang, when done right, meaning when it feels satisfying to the person receiving it, enhances the parasympathetic response and the production of serotonin. Taking the time you need to do things enhances the production of serotonin. This means taking your time, rather than slowness. Slowness under excess adrenaline is stressful, so it does not contribute to more serotonin.
Everything is in the attitude of the practitioner. This is why healing practitioners have to cultivate serotonin production as well as the attitude of taking the time and paying attention, which comes with a better adrenaline-serotonin ratio.