Why Your Body Needs A Hug Every Day

#1 WHY YOUR BODY NEEDS A HUG EVERY DAY

“A number of studies now showing that this simple act of kindness may have benefit to those who give, and those who receive,” affirms Liz Bonis, medical reporter of Local 12 News Cincinnati.

Hugging therapy is definitely a powerful way of healing. Research shows that hugging (and also laughter) is extremely effective at healing sickness, disease, loneliness, depression, anxiety and stress.

#2 Findings from Hugging Research

The human body normally produces some levels of oxytocin, but with hugging this level increases significantly. Oxytocin represents a neurotransmitter located in the central area of the brain.

As a result, it can stimulate feelings of happiness, lower stress levels and stress and less anxiety as well. That is why hugging can become a great therapy that costs absolutely no money and is available at all times.

Also, many studies analyzed the remaining benefits of hugging. A study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University explained that hugging can decrease the odds for illnesses and stress.

#3

Sheldon Cohen, the Robert E. Doherty University Professor of Psychology at Carnegie Mellon University led the study. He explained, “This suggests that being hugged by a trusted person may act as an effective means of conveying support and that increasing the frequency of hugs might be an effective means of reducing the deleterious effects of stress. The apparent protective effect of hugs may be attributable to the physical contact itself or to hugging being a behavioral indicator of support and intimacy.”

He added, “Either way, those who receive hugs are somewhat more protected from infection.” So there you have it. Each hug you receive plays an important role in lowering your stress levels and keeping you healthy!

#4 Other Health Benefits of Hugging - 'Feel Good'

The great benefits of receiving a hug run deep. Did you know that hugging releases emotionally positive brain chemicals? Yes, you’re actually spreading happiness when you hug someone. During hugging your body releases dopamine and serotonin or the “feel-good” hormone. Serotonin is responsible with regulating mood, preventing depression and basically making you happy. So boost your serotonin levels with a hug today!

#5 Alleviate your fears and anxiety

Hugs can also lower your heart rate and alleviate your fears and anxiety. The link between a positive emotional state and low levels of stress has already been established. Interpersonal touch is very powerful for our physical and mental health. Hugging can make you worry less about issues that you deal with on a daily basis, or even existential problems.

#6 protect against heart disease

One other way the Big O and hugging combine so well is that helps protect against heart disease, according to research by the University of North Carolina. This happens because those who do not hug their romantic partners have a raised heart rate by ten beats per minute.

#7 Better sex

Do you want better sex, fellas? Hugging has also been proven to increase sexual performance, so it is the body’s very own viagra. The Big O – that is Oxytocin in this case, brings to the table far more than just making you bond more or enjoy quality sex.

#8 Builds Trust

The nurturing touch of a hug builds trust and a sense of safety. This helps with open and honest communication.

#9 Strengthen the immune system

Hugs strengthen the immune system. The gentle pressure on the sternum and the emotional charge this creates activates the Solar Plexus Chakra. This stimulates the thymus gland, which regulates and balances the body's production of white blood cells, which keep you healthy and disease free.

#10 Balance out the nervous system

Hugs balance out the nervous system. The galvanic skin response of someone receiving and giving a hug shows a change in skin conductance. The effect in moisture and electricity in the skin suggests a more balanced state in the nervous system - parasympathetic.

#11 Energy exchange

The energy exchange between the people hugging is an investment in the relationship. It encourages empathy and understanding. And, it's synergistic, which means the whole is more than the sum of its parts: 1 1 = 3 or more! This synergy is more likely to result in win-win outcomes.

#12

Hugging a loved one will definitely make your day better and brighter. So why not spread the joy and make the world a better place with every hug you give and receive?