Why We Should Hug More!

The Physiological and Psychological Effects of Hugs

Are you a hugger? I sure am, and have always been as far back as I remember.  It’s interesting and useful to know that hugging actually has numerous health benefits.  I know surprising right, but it has been shown to be the case by various studies to be of great value and is something that I touched upon in my post The Therapeutic Effects of Teddies. Hugs can have a variety of benefits from stress relief to encouraging better sleep. In this post we look at The Physiological and Psychological Effects of Hugs.

Why We Should Hug More!

Hugging can be very comforting especially if you are upset.  I always make a point of hugging my little ones daily where I can whether they are upset about something or simply for the sake of having a hug.

Why Should We Hug More?

Stimulates the Release of Oxytocin

The simple act of giving a hug to another can increase a bond between people.  Hugging for 30 seconds leads to the release of oxytocin by the pituitary gland in the brain.  This is associated with with feeling content and helps you feel so much more relaxed.  Oxytocin has such a large number of health benefits that you will find yourself making a point of hugging anything you can to increase the amount your body releases on a daily basis.

Why is This Important?

Oxytocin reduces the production of stress hormones in the body (mainly cortisol) which can help keep blood pressure lower in stressful situations. It can also help to lower blood pressure and cardiovascular function.

This fabulous hormone released during hugging can help those addicted to drugs, alcohol and sweets by reducing the desire for them.

Oxytocin can also stimulate the release of the happy hormone dopamine and serotonin which help to calm, improve mood and also boost self esteem and reduce depression.

Hugging can relieve pain and increase pain tolerance.  Endorphins are released when you hug that block pain pathways in the brain. Ocytocin also has an analgesic effect which can reduce the intensity of pain. It can also help reduce inflammation and promote would healing.

Immune Response

Hugs seem to exert a positive effect on the immune system.  Research has demonstrated that those that received more hugs were less likely to be susceptible to colds after being exposed to a virus. This is because it reduces stress levels allowing the body function at a more optimal level  Those that did get a cold that had greater social support and more hugs had less severe symptoms.

The Effects of Hugs on Stress and Mood

When you hug an individual with whom you are close with whether it’s a partner, family member, child, friend or pet, as you now know your body releases oxytocin. This also slows down the heart rate and also the amount of cortisol in your body resulting in lower stress levels, this enables you to relax better and to have better control over your emotions. It also helps you form better connections with others and gives a feeling of support and being valued. This can be beneficial in relieving anxiety and booting your mood leaving you feeling much happier. It can also reassuring that someone cares resulting in a feeling of greater self worth and  boosting confidence.

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What Can influence the Benefits?

The benefits can be greatly influenced by the hug duration. Those under 20 seconds will give little or no benefits. The relationship you have with the individual you are hugging can have a significant impact on whether either person will experience any benefits.

Benefits can also be influenced by personal preferences. Not everyone is a hugger. Some individuals really aren’t keen on physical contact for various reasons. For them, the simple act of a hug can induce stress in some especially those not so used to displays of physical affection like that, so don’t force it. Gradual attempts may help, but it may take time, and a lot of patience (I’m speaking from experience).

Can You Get Any Benefits From Hugging Yourself?

Actually, yes!!! Many of the benefits we have read about relating to hugs in this post can still be achieved just by hugging yourself. So make sure you get the most out of something so simple and free!

Summary

A 30 second hug around 12 to 15 times each day can significantly improve our health including all the areas covered in this post, so grab your child, significant other, friend, pet, teddy or yourself and get hugging.  Prolonged hugging significantly increases positive effects plus hugs are great, so keep this in mind daily.

Hugs to all!!!

Do you enjoy hugs? Do you get hugs /give hugs daily?

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