What Comes to Mind When You Hear the Word “Hug”?
A small child running into their mother’s arms.
A couple wrapped up in love.
The long-awaited embrace of someone you haven’t seen in far too long.
But a hug is much more than a tender image.
A hug is powerful.
And science agrees.
💌 The Science Behind a Hug
The so-called “love hormone”, oxytocin, is released in greater quantities when we hug. Once released, it travels throughout the body, influencing both our emotional and physical well-being.
Research conducted at King’s College London suggests that oxytocin may even help improve the relationship with food in individuals suffering from anorexia nervosa.
💌 Hugs Help You Heal Faster
Hugging supports the immune system, helping the body recover more quickly from illness and stress. A simple embrace can genuinely aid healing.
💌 Hugs Support Children’s Emotional Intelligence
Parental hugs play a vital role in developing a child’s emotional intelligence. As a non-verbal form of communication, hugging helps children build skills such as empathy, emotional awareness, and emotional regulation.
In addition, increased oxytocin levels stimulate growth hormones, supporting a child’s physical development.
💌 Hugs Reduce Stress
Hugs lower levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, potentially protecting us from the harmful effects of chronic stress.
💌 More Benefits of a Hug
Lowers blood pressure
Acts as a natural pain reliever when received from a loved one
Strengthens emotional bonds and deepens relationships
The Power of 20 Seconds
In a study involving 200 participants, individuals were exposed to a stressful task and then divided into two groups:
One group sat quietly after the stress test
The other received a 20-second hug from a loved one
Can you guess which group showed lower cortisol levels afterward?
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The winners were the ones who received the hug.
Sometimes, the most powerful medicine isn’t found in a pill—but in human connection.
So today, don’t underestimate the power of an embrace.
Give one. Receive one. Hold it for 20 seconds.
Your body and your heart will thank you.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or dietitian for advice tailored to your individual needs.