Mindwellness©
It is that time year. Love is in the air, or atleast out there on the social media for sure. It is 11th of February and other than being a Sunday, it is also HUG DAY! So take a moment to read 5 great reasons why a hug is such a powerful and therapeutic tool.
P.S – Warning! As a mandate, after reading this post, you have to give a hug to someone. The reasons are going to compel you to.
Benefit of Cuddle therapy:
1. Bond. James Bond!
Hugging your partner, children or friends increases your bond with them. Neurobiologically speaking, it is the wonders of OXYTOCIN which makes us strengthen the bond. A tight hug and see yourself connect better with your better half.
2. Bye bye Depression
A good tight squeeze helps secrete serotonin in your brain, which improves your mood and can boost your self-esteem. Jaadoo ki jhapphi – an antidepressant that you can have anytime.
3. Fight infections
A study observed over 400 healthy adults and their perceived social support. They were asked about the frequency of their fights and hugs received over next 2 weeks. The researchers then exposed the participants to the common cold virus and monitored to assess symptoms and signs of infection.
No surprise that those who had good social support and received frequent hugs, had less or no number of symptoms and signs of infection. Those who went through more interpersonal conflicts (fights) and the received less or no hugs, exhibited symptoms and signs of infection.
Hugging therefore saves you a trip to the doctor!
4. Painkiller
Aah se rahat tak. The next time someone is really in pain (physical or mental), give them a tight hug. Speaks louder than words. It releases endorphins, that relieves pain by blocking pain pathways.
5. Stress buster
Stress hormones like cortisol decrease on hugging. After a long day of work, give your partner a big hug. Simplest way to destress.
Still need another reason to hug someone you love?
Happy Hug Day!
Dr.Era Dutta
Mind Wellness©
