The advantages of hugs, pats, or intimacy may surprise you.

The power of touch is a concept that is often overlooked, yet it is one of the most potent forms of communication and healing that we possess. It’s a universal language that needs no translation; it transcends age, gender, and cultural boundaries. It’s a gentle, reassuring pat on the back, a warm hand squeeze in times of distress, or a loving hug that says, “I’m here for you.” It’s an expression of empathy, an extension of human connection, and a conduit for emotional exchange.

Touch is not just about physical contact; it’s also about emotional intimacy. It’s about reaching out to others in a way that words often fall short. It’s about feeling connected to others and knowing that you’re not alone. Touch can be a comforting presence in times of sorrow, a source of strength in times of struggle, and a beacon of hope in times of despair.

The power of touch also extends to our health and well-being. Various studies have shown that touch can lower stress hormones, boost the immune system, and increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Touch can soothe a crying baby, alleviate the pain of an injury, and even help heal mental and emotional wounds.

The power of touch is indeed profound. It’s a simple act that carries an enormous weight of significance. As human beings, we are wired for connection – with ourselves, with others, and with the world around us. And touch is one of the most fundamental ways we connect. Let’s not underestimate its importance or its potential to bring about positive change. Let’s embrace the power of touch – for it is within our hands to comfort, to heal, to connect, and to love.

Why Is touch important?

Physical contact is a basic human need with emotional, mental, and physical benefits. From the moment of birth, babies need to cling, suckle, and rest on caregivers. This practice forms the bonds at the heart of our familial social structure and is a key tool of survival.

Even as we age, touch remains a critical component of our social and emotional growth. One study found that students are three times as likely to speak up in class after their teacher pats them in a friendly manner.

The release of the hormone oxytocin is another benefit of physical touch. oxytocin helps humans form emotional connection to one another and creates sensations that foster a sense of well-being and happiness. Even if we aren’t bonding with babies, adults can still benefit from the various rewards of an oxytocin release with friends, partners, or even animals.

Why is human touch so powerful? The benefits of physical touch, and the biological stimulation that comes with it, go beyond social bonding and can manifest positively in your mental and physical health.

Here are some major ways hugs and hand holding can increase your happiness and longevity.

Inspire positive thinking and expand trust

Known as the “feel good” hormone, oxytocin helps inspire positive thinking and an optimistic outlook on the world. Oxytocin also generates feelings of compassion during interactions. This can contribute to an expansion of trust among individuals during social situations.

Reduce social anxiety and stress

Physical touch increases levels of dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters that help regulate your mood and relieve stress and anxiety. Dopamine is also known to regulate the pleasure center in your brain that can offset feelings of anxiety

Boost immune system and lower blood pressure

Physical touch is known to improve the function of your immune system as well as reduce diseases such as those associated with the heart and blood. One study on women found that receiving more hugs from their partners led to lower heart rates and blood pressure.

Some people are very sensitive or ticklish or you may know someone who just ‘doesn’t like to be touched. Massage Therapy is safe touch with very clear boundaries so those same people who ‘didn’t want to be touched’ respond very well and feel very comfortable with massage almost every time.

Out of all of our senses, touch is the only one we literally CAN’T LIVE without. ​Massage Therapy offers an environment to receive healthy, safe, healing touch. Everyone young or old, male or female can benefit from incorporating more touch into their lives.

Schedule a massage to make sure you are getting enough of the healing power of touch.

So, what happens when we don’t receive that?

A lack of touch can lead us to feel isolated, depressed, and stressed. It can cause high blood pressure and push us to deal with our feelings in unhealthy ways. Our physical health becomes intertwined with our emotional state, making us more susceptible to illnesses.

However, it’s important to remember that we are not alone in this struggle. It’s a shared human experience. We all crave that soft touch, that reassuring hold, that gentle squeeze which silently whispers “you’re not alone.” It’s a fundamental part of being human, an integral part of our existence.

In times when physical touch is not an option, there are different ways to bridge the gap. Words can be as powerful as touch, and a heartfelt conversation can provide comfort. Virtual platforms can also help to maintain the human connection we deeply yearn for.

In conclusion, while the absence of touch can indeed lead to feelings of isolation, depression and stress, it is essential to remember that there are numerous ways in which we can combat this. Reach out for help when needed, engage in self-care and remember, you are stronger than you think.