Daily Dose of Oxytocin: Kinds of hugs, its benefits, and the secret to a perfect hug

Mitzi Santos

June 12, 2020

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  It’s a sad day for someone whose love language is touch.  Everyone should observe at least a 2-meter distance from each other to control the spread of virus. How can hugging be possible if there is social distancing?

  Today might not be the best timing to talk about hugs in the time where social distancing needs to be practiced but it’s helpful to know its benefits that come with it.

  Hugs may seem so simple but there are health benefits that you can get from it. As much as you want to deny it, we as humans are touchy in nature. We always yearn for physical touch. Who wouldn’t want to get a warm hug after such a long day, right?

  The Toho University of Japan ran a test measuring the effect of hugs on infants of different pressure. Heart rates as well as the pressure the parent or adult is applying on the infant’s body are closely monitored.

  They were able to assess how just being held, a hug with medium pressure, and a tight hug can affect the infant’s mood. A medium tight hug appears to have this calming effect on an infant compared to tight hugs. The researchers believe that the most effective hug amongst the three is the medium hug.

  What about the one who is giving a hug? Research shows that there is a significant sign of calmness while they are hugging their child. Their body releases a hormone called oxytocin also known as the love hormone.

  More than just the bonding between parent and child or any two people, hugs give you the health benefits that calms you during the most stressful situations.

  So, next time we all get the chance to hug our partner, relatives, and even friends, make it worthwhile.

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