Overall Health

OVERALL HEALTH
Sheri Smith
March 29, 2016

I’ve always been a firm believer in the healing power of a hug. There’s always a warm, fuzzy, soothing sensation that occurs when someone wraps me in their embrace. I bet you feel it too! But, did you know that even science is now proving that hugs can keep us healthy?

Just one study published last year by Carnegie Mellon University found that frequent hugs help reduce our susceptibility to infections, and that physical touch can protect us from stress induced illness. Imagine, you can lower your blood pressure, boost your immune system, and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol while increasing the brain’s production of the “cuddle hormone” oxytocin. Hugging also releases endorphins, our body’s natural pain reliever, and ramps up the brain’s production of dopamine and serotonin, two naturally occurring chemicals that promote well-being and negate sadness. And the best part? There’s no prescription needed, so it doesn’t cost a thing!

So, what are you waiting for? Give someone a hug!

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