Research roundup on how physical affection boosts body and mind throughout life:
Security
Worldwide we agree that babies need to be held. There is evidence that adults who were frequently hugged and cuddled during early childhood display fewer stress symptoms than less-hugged counterparts. Physical affection also alleviates stress reactions in adults who report less existential anxiety even when touched only briefly. We are simply wired to find touch reassuring…
Positive Feelings
We release the hormone oxytocin when touched, which elevates feelings of attachment, connection, trust, and intimacy. When we're hugged, we feel less lonely… [and less devastated by problems…..] Hugs facilitate social bonding and the experience of participating fully in this life, which, to me, is true happiness.
Better Health
… when we are touched our heart rate, blood pressure, and levels of the harmful stress hormone cortisol are lowered. Reach out and hug, and your life might not only feel better, but last longer.
▪ Excerpt from Polard, Andrea F., Psy.D. (June, 2014),
"A Unified Theory of Happiness", Psychology Today
