People today are much less physically connected thanks to social media, our attachment to our phones/devices, and lately, the global pandemic. This may leave you feeling isolated, lonely and even be harmful to your overall health. Did you know that physical touch is both a healthy and necessary component for humans? And believe it or not, something as simple as a hug can provide that needed human connection, boost your mood and improve your health.
January 21: just another day? Actually, it’s National Hugging Day. National Hugging Day was founded by Rev. Kevin Zaborney of Michigan back in 1986. He believed that people needed positive human interaction and found that a hug was a “safe way” to interact. He thought his idea would be mocked, but to his surprise, it became popular around the world. His one caveat, of course, being that we” always ask [permission] first” before giving a hug.
Giving a hug can offer support, care and comfort to another human. A hug can also boost your health, and there is scientific evidence to prove it.
Physical touch is important to babies as early as in the womb, and it continues to be a life-long necessity to our well-being. “New studies on touch continue to show the importance of physical contact in early development, communication, personal relationships, and fighting disease,” says Jonathan Jones of Greater Good Magazine.
A study in Psychological Science exposed 404 healthy adults to a common cold virus. The study found that the adults that were less likely to get sick or had less severe symptoms were the adults who were hugged frequently.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, hugs cause a decrease in the body’s release of cortisol (stress hormones). In a stressful environment, a hug can lower the heart rate and blood pressure. That’s good for your heart health. Hugs also increase “feel good” hormones like serotonin and oxytocin. Serotonin and oxytocin stimulate feelings of trust, safety, feeling supported, and overall well-being.Hugs can reduce anxiety. They can also lead to better sleep, and according to MBG Health, the well-being hormones produced from hugging can even reduce signs of aging.
In a time when physical distancing is necessary, you may wonder how you can safely give and receive hugs. Is it even worth it to try? Based on the science, physical touch isn’t something that we should sacrifice forever. We just have to find creative ways to do it safely.
DISCLAIMER: This article contains information that is intended to help the readers be better informed regarding exercise and health care. It is presented as general advice on health care. Always consult your doctor for your individual needs. Before beginning any new exercise program it is recommended that you seek medical advice from your personal physician. This article is not intended to be a substitute for the medical advice of a licensed physician. The reader should consult with their doctor in any matters relating to his/her health.
