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We often underestimate the power of touch. It is truly unbelievable that even medicated processes often fail in the face of a long hug. Several researches confirm how a simple hug can be therapeutic in recovering from pain and sadness. Apart from just feeling the pleasure boost from a physical touch, there are also several physiological reasons why hugs are necessary.
Here are five things felt when we get a good, long hug -
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Release Of Hormones
A hug instantly releases a lot of hormones in our body like dopamine, oxytocin and serotonin. These are termed as the “happy hormones” of our body. They collectively work to release pleasure, lower blood pressure and elevate mood levels. Even a ten second hug can help the body fight tiredness and ensure a healthier heart.
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Muscle Relaxation
Due to the release of anti-stress and antidepressant hormones during a hug, muscles get relaxed. Hugs make us feel the release of tension immediately from the body. The increase of blood circulation also reduces aches and pains from tissues, joints and muscles. One can evidently feel a lightness in their body after a proper hug.
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Stress Relief
Hugs are undoubtedly instant stress relievers. The release of oxytocin, which is called the “cuddle hormone”, effectively lowers blood pressure levels and reduces anxiety. This, in turn, helps with other activities like good sleep at night, improved hunger, increased energy levels and a better performance in daily activities. So, if you are tired after a long day, reach out to your loved ones for a long hug.
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Reducing Fears
The physical touch that comes with a hug naturally helps in building trust and safe space. With the reduction of stress and anxiety, a proper hug can also make us forget our fears. Negative feelings like loneliness, depression, anger, and isolation are effectively reduced.
Researchers say that even existential fears and fears of mortality get decreased by a hug. This is the reason why psychologically diagnosed patients are often suggested to receive hugs as a therapeutic process.
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Boost In Self-Esteem And Confidence
The reason why we feel good immediately after a hug is because they are excellent ego boosters. The physical contact during a hug not only makes us feel loved and safe but also validates our self-confidence. A boost in our self-esteem makes us aware of our body and current state of mind. It helps us with not just connecting with the loved ones around us but also with our ability to self love.
Hugs greatly improve important fluid levels in our body and make us feel healthier and happier. You can hug your parents, your children, your lovers or even a tree! Hugs are free and they come with happiness. Every time you feel low, sneak a hug. In one sentence, we can conclude saying that it feels amazing to get a hug!
FAQs
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How many hugs do humans require in a day?
Ans. Psychologists claim that humans should get at least eight hugs each day to have the perfect physical and mental balance for happiness.
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Can hugs help with our immune system?
Ans. Yes! Hugs are excellent immune boosters. With the release of several happy hormones, hugs improve the working of the heart, digestive and nervous system which automatically improves our immunity.
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Are hugs helpful during a panic attack?
Ans. Hugs are extremely helpful during a panic attack as they effectively help in reducing the blood pressure in the body and brings the heart to a steady pace.
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Do hugs help with expressing emotions?
Ans. Hugs are an intimate way of expressing feelings. A hug can greatly help to release emotions of happiness, anger, sadness or vulnerability which people may otherwise face difficulty expressing.
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Should hugs necessarily be done with humans?
Ans. Absolutely not. While some people crave human touch, hugs are not limited to humans only. You can also hug your soft toy, your pet, your pillow, or even a tree!
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