Reducing Stress and Anxiety with Touch
Have you ever noticed what happens when your partner comes up from behind you and hugs you? Or have you ever watched your child as you wrap your arms around them in the morning? How about when you are emotionally overwhelmed and a trusted friend offers you a hug and maybe a glass of wine?
You will probably notice someone’s face relax, shoulders fall to their sides, or perhaps even a smile and a sigh. This is because hugs and touch are associated with positive feelings such as increased trust, calmness, and empathy.
When it comes to cuddles and physical contact, both adults and children benefit significantly when they receive it. According to studies, touching and hugging can enhance immunity, lower stress levels, and improve mood. Here are the top seven ways that physical contact and cuddling may ease stress:
Endorphin Release: Endorphins are a chemical that is released in response to touch. Endorphins are known to reduce the stress hormone cortisol and create a sense of pleasure and well-being. Cuddling and physical touch can release endorphins, helping to reduce stress.
Endorphin Release: When you give or receive physical contact, endorphins are released. These chemicals are known to reduce the stress hormone cortisol and create a sense of pleasure and well-being.
Oxytocin Rush: Feeling ooey-gooey after someone touches you? That’s oxytocin baby. It aids in lowering cortisol levels, resulting in a peaceful, cozy, and connected feeling. Increased oxytocin levels, which lower stress and foster a sense of connection, can be brought on by physical contact.
Pain Relief: Touch can help relieve physical pain, as it can increase circulation and help with muscle relaxation. This can help reduce stress and make it easier to cope with pain. In addition, physical touch stimulates nerve receptors in the skin, which can help distract from pain and create a feeling of comfort.
Stress Relief: Touch can help the body relax, reducing tension and stress. It can also help improve sleep, which can reduce stress by providing the body and mind with rejuvenating rest.
Social Bonding: Touch is often associated with social bonding and intimacy, which can promote feelings of security and well-being. Being close to someone we care about can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are common stressors.
Mood Booster: Cuddles and physical touch can also help to improve mood. Studies have shown that cuddles and physical touch can help to release serotonin, which can help to improve mood and reduce stress.
Cuddles and physical touch can provide numerous health benefits, including reducing stress levels and improving mood. So, if you are looking to reduce stress, cuddling and physical touch may be the answer.
It is worth noting, that touch does not help everyone with their stress and it varies depending on each individual and their experience, or history with touch. It someone’s experience with touch in early life was negative, or they had a traumatic experience, then touch may not feel safe to them.
