The cuddle chemical:
The healing power of hugging


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A hug lasting 20 seconds can have a therapeutic effect on the body and mind.

The average length of a hug between two people is three seconds. Researchers, though, have discovered something amazing. When a hug lasts 20 seconds or more, it stimulates the release of oxytocin, lowers cortisol levels, and helps regulate blood pressure and heart rate.

Oxytocin, also known as the love hormone or cuddle chemical, has many benefits for our physical and mental health. It’s a hormone and neurotransmitter that’s released through physical touch, especially in emotionally meaningful relationships. It plays a massive role in how safe, connected, and emotionally regulated we feel. It helps us, among other things, to relax, to feel safe and calm our fears and anxiety.
This free-of-charge, feel-good fix is ours every time we embrace a partner, cradle a child, or hold a beloved pet. It soothes the nervous system and teaches the body that we are safe.

Why hug? Here are six really good reasons:

1. Self-esteem
Hugging boosts self-esteem, especially in children. The tactile sense is all-important in infants.

2. Prevents disease
Affection has a direct response on the reduction of stress, which prevents many diseases, and balancing the nervous system. Hugging also stimulates the thymus gland, which strengthens the immune system.

3. Stimulates oxytocin
Oxytocin is a neurotransmitter that acts on the limbic system, the brain’s emotional centre, promoting feelings of
contentment, reducing anxiety and stress, and even making mammals more prone to monogamy.

4. Stimulates dopamine
Low dopamine levels play a role in the neurodegenerative disease Parkinson’s as well as mood disorders such as depression.

5. Stimulates serotonin
Hugging for an extended time lifts one’s serotonin levels, elevating mood and creating happiness.

So, hug it out, every day, for at least 20 seconds to improve your relationships, health, and happiness.


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