Having a bad day? Feeling stressed out from work or school? Here’s an easy solution: hug someone! According to studies, hugging is a great way to not only connect with someone but also improve your physical and emotional health. Hugging increases levels of oxytocin, a natural hormone that has potent health benefits, including: reducing stress, fighting fatigue, boosting the immune system, and lowering blood pressure.
Image Source: Camilla Bandeira
There’s no doubt that hugging has its benefits, yet so many people are hug-deprived. One study found that 33% of people don’t receive hugs daily, and 75% wished they hugged more. Perhaps you’re wondering, “Are you saying that I should hug strangers?” Well, maybe not. The jury is still out on whether or not hugging a stranger has the same impact as hugging someone you know. While hugging friends has been proven to make you feel better, research from the University of Vienna suggests that hugs are beneficial only if you trust the person you’re hugging.
Can I only hug a person to reap the benefits of oxytocin? Of course not! Holding holds, performing yoga, getting a massage, and cuddling with your dog are all ways to increase oxytocin levels. The feeling of touch is so important because it has instantaneous health benefits, such as resolving loneliness, improving self-esteem, and decreasing tension. So, the next time you give a two-second hug, don’t take its benefits for granted.
Featured Image Source: Paulina Kim Joo
