Hugging

I think we all need a tight hug about now. How ‘bout you?

A fist pump is good. A high five can make you yell out, “YA!” But in a world without hugs, as it is for the most part now….we are missing out on so much healing.

Healing? Can a hug actually heal a person?

“Dignity Health” says that there are actually four real health benefits to hugging.

1. They Relieve Stress and Pain

Hugging often creates a feeling of calmness and relaxation. That's because of oxytocin, which is sometimes called the "cuddle hormone." Oxytocin is released when people or pets snuggle up or bond socially. This release can have a domino effect throughout the body and has been found to:

• Reduce inflammation.

• Improve wound healing.

• Lessen cravings for drugs, alcohol, and sweets.

• Lower heart rate and stress

Wow! I love the idea of a ‘cuddle hormone’ . And we can snuggle with our pets and get the same great benefits!

2. They Strengthen Our Immune System

In a 2014 study, researchers at Carnegie Mellon University measured social support in the form of hugs in more than 400 healthy adults. For two weeks, participants were asked about the number of times they experienced interpersonal conflict and the number of hugs they received each day.

The researchers then exposed the participants to a common cold virus. What they found was that perceived social support and hugs reduced the risk of infection. The more often people hugged, the less likely they were to get sick — even those who frequently experienced conflict.

Hmmmmm. Perhaps we NEED to hug during this pandemic!

3. They Make Us Happier

Hugging increases serotonin, a neurotransmitter known as the "feel good" hormone that is produced and spread by neurons in the brain. Serotonin helps us feel happy, calm, and confident. When serotonin flows freely, we feel good about ourselves — and the opposite is true when this hormone is absent. Low levels can cause sleep disorders and lead to obesity.

I want the ‘feel good’ hormone!

4. They Help Deepen Our Relationships

We instinctively want to hug those we know are in pain. When you receive a hug from someone you care about, it can bring you comfort, make you feel safe, and sometimes even turn your entire day around.

In many ways, hugs are a form of meditation. They allow us to be present in the moment, to let go and flow with the energy of the embrace. It's easy to forget how meaningful a hug can be, but it can truly deepen your connection with another person. Hugs convey, in a nonverbal way, an understanding of each other.

When I was young I felt uncomfortable with hugging. I don’t know why. I still know many people feel the same way. But I have learned that “A hug a day can keep the doctor away”.

For now we might have to be apart. But let’s hug those we can more regularly and reap the many benefits.

And know that today I send you the first of many virtual hugs!