Did you know that "a 10-second hug a day can lead to biochemical and physiological reactions in your body that can greatly improve your health?" (source)
Levels of the "love hormone", oxytocin, are increased while hugging. "Oxytocin is a naturally occurring hormone in your body with incredibly powerful, health-giving properties," that is released in response to physical touch. (source)
Some of the physiological and biochemical benefits that occur from positive physical touch such as hugging include:
- stress reduction (from lowering levels of stress hormones like cortisol)
- ease depression
- boosts in immune system
- fight fatigue
- fight infection
You might say that your child is not a "hugger". It is true, that not everyone has the same "love language" and everyone responds differently to physical affection (you can read more about that here). However, everyone needs and/or desires physical affection to some level. "Many people are touch-deprived. One study found that one-third of people receive no hugs on a daily basis while 75 percent said they wanted more hugs." (source)
Who doesn't love to be loved?! There are so many reasons, physically and emotionally, to hug.
So, with Valentines Day right around the corner, it's a great time to spread the love. If you have a teen or other young ones around, grab them for a little bear hug, today. You never know just how much that might mean to them! (even if they act like you have cooties)
Have you hugged your child today!
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