Hugs Are Better Than You Think (Let's Hug for Health)

Hugs Are Better Than You Think (Let's Hug for Health)

Hugging isn't just about warmth — it actually offers serious health benefits too. At this point, many of you might be wondering how it could possibly be that good. If you don't believe it, let's read on and see just how hugging helps our health.

Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease

Every time we hug, oxytocin — a hormone released by the posterior pituitary gland that affects brain function — is released, making us feel happy, reducing stress, and normalizing blood pressure. This also lowers the risk of developing heart disease.

Leads You Into Happy Time

In addition to stimulating oxytocin, hugging also triggers the body to release dopamine, a hormone that heightens sexual feelings. Just hugging your partner tenderly can lead you both to something more — a physical expression of love beyond just hugging.

Builds Up the Immune System

Oxytocin also helps fight off infection, which means that hugging, by producing oxytocin, can strengthen the immune system in the process. As a result, you may also get sick less often.

Relieves Stress

No matter what problem you're facing or how tough it is, have you ever noticed that hugging someone makes you feel surprisingly better? Hugging isn't just a tangible way to release your emotions — it's also a way to relieve stress, making us more ready to face future problems ahead.

Hugs Can Be Given Out Like Smiles

Hugs aren't just for romantic partners. There are many ways to hug, with different feelings — putting an arm around a friend's shoulder, hugging your dog, petting your pet, or even hugging your family members — all of these can trigger the body to release oxytocin. So, have you hugged anyone today?