What are the benefits of hugging? 4 scientifically proven reasons to hug more often

Four hugs a day are necessary for survival. Eight for a normal life. Twelve for a breakthrough. You’ve probably come across these recommendations in social media, books and articles. We tell you how it works and why “hugs” are so healthy.

Psychologist, neurologist, neurologist

A person needs a person, including for touching. In a big city we can do a lot of things on our own, without help, but for a full-fledged hug you need someone nice. If you pay enough attention to yourself, you will notice that even if you hug someone in a purely formal, secular way, you will feel your mood improve. So what happens to our bodies when we hold someone close to us?

Oxytocin release

Oxytocin is called the attachment hormone. It increases trust between people and makes us more affectionate and satisfied. Oxytocin reduces the effects of cortisol, the anxiety hormone (almost everyone has an excess of it these days). Thanks to oxytocin, there is a mild decrease in blood pressure, and this reduces the likelihood of cardiovascular disease.

It is noticed: lonely people are at a much higher risk of the same heart attack. If you can not fall asleep, tossing in bed, tormented by unhappy thoughts, you can resort to certain drugs (prescribed by a doctor, of course), counting sheep, or you can laze in someone’s arms for ten minutes – sleep will come by itself. This is also the “magic” of oxytocin.

About other ways to increase the production of happy hormones read in the material at the link.

By the way, if we talk about the interaction between people, it is noticed and such an effect: more hugs – better relationship. Of course, when the conflict has gone too far, “hugs” can not solve the problem. But to maintain a warm atmosphere in a couple, a group of friends or even colleagues, the tradition of hugging each other – when meeting, saying goodbye and just for fun, from an excess of feelings – can raise communication to another level without long and sometimes tedious discussions.

Endorphin release

Endorphins are chemical compounds that are produced by the brain. They are similar to opiates in their effects on the body and have an analgesic effect. When a baby falls or hits something, he instinctively runs to his mom to kiss, hug and comfort him. Hugs and generally gentle touches can reduce the severity of painful sensations.

Stimulation of the thymus gland

This mysterious organ is located behind our sternum. In childhood, it is the thymus gland that is most responsible for the formation of the body’s immunity. Light pressure on the chest with a positive emotional charge stimulates it and turns on the internal defense system.

Stimulation of the nervous system

Hugs produce a certain bioelectrical response that calms the nerves. The skin of the person being hugged receives information that the world is safe and friendly, and the person is accepted and loved.

Of course, an adult will not die without a hug, but the quality of life, as well as its duration, may decrease. In a big city – great prospects, but the probability of being alone in the crowd is also great. So it makes sense to take care of yourself if, for example, you live alone and change is not imminent.

Try a massage. A good masseur will give your body the whole gamut of necessary sensations. No such opportunity? Do not be lazy to massage yourself. Read about simple self-massage techniques in the article at the link.

Gently take yourself by the shoulders and say some kind words, aloud or to yourself – it’s not embarrassing, not funny, and very useful for your health.