Hugs have an amazing effect on the bodies hormones. Hugs can even help to ease pain and soothe aches within the body by increasing circulation in the soft tissues. A hearty and lengthy hug also reduces stress levels in the body, releasing tension and relaxing muscles.
High levels of the stress hormone 'Cortisol' within the body not only contributes to higher stress levels, but it's known to contribute to high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease. Hugs reduce Cortisol levels, which results in lowered blood pressure in the body, helping us to feel less anxious and nervous.
Lowered stress levels in the body improves overall relaxation and improves the quality of sleep. A hug or a cuddle before bedtime is a safe and effective alternative to a sleeping pill.
Hugs instantly elevates Oxytocin levels within the body. A healthy flow of the natural hormone Oxytocin has been shown to heal feelings of loneliness, isolation and anger.
Known as the 'love drug' Oxytocin helps calm the nervous system and boosts positive emotions. It's no wonder that a loving or affection hug helps to create a feeling of connection, trust and intimacy with another and strengthens the emotional bond between couples.
During a stressful or painful life event, receiving a sympathetic hug from another not only helps to reassure and comfort us, but can help one deal with emotions more effectively and with more clarity.
Hugs also boost the body's level of Dopamine, the same hormone that creates feelings of relaxation or excitement when listening to pleasurable music. Low levels of dopamine in the body have been linked with procrastination, self doubt and lack of enthusiasm. Low dopamine in the body is linked to neuro-generative diseases and moods disorders like depression. A hug is a great remedy! Even just the anticipation of a desired hug causes the brain to release a flood of dopamine.
Low Serotonin levels have been linked to feelings of loneliness and despair, which can lead to depression. Hugs release a rush of endorphins and Serotonin in the body, increasing pleasure and happiness and negating pain and sadness. Healthy Serotonin levels in the body can decrease one's risk of heart problems, as well as helping to maintain a healthy body weight, and can even help to prolong life.
A healthy and natural boost of Serotonin that comes from a hug can elevate our mood and create feelings of significance and improved self worth. Hugs also help to balance out the nervous system in general and generates the "Galvanic Response". The skin contains a network of tiny pressure centres called pacinian corpuscles that can sense touch. These pressure centres make contact with the brain through Vagus Nerve. The Galvanic skin response of someone during a hug shows a change in the conductance of the skin. The effect of moisture and electricity in the skin creates a more balanced state in the nervous system (the parasympathetic system). It's no coincidence then, that a hug is often given or received to offer sympathy to another. Learn more about Article2