Hugs may only last a few seconds, but their health benefits last forever. From reducing stress to improving communication, hugs ease the stressors life throws at us. 

Science says hugging loved ones can make you healthier and happier. It works with stuffed animals & pillows too. No wonder professional cuddling is on the rise and apparently, it’s not that absurd to feel comforted by “cuddle therapy”. 

Pillow, Stuffed animal or a human, don’t miss out on what hugs have to offer. Here are a few health benefits of a tight squeeze. 

Help us relax

A 20-second hug may reduce cortisol levels. Reduced cortisol levels subdue the impact on your blood pressure and heart rate in turn, making us feel relaxed. 

 Boost immunity

It’s more likely that we fall sick when we’re worried. Studies suggest that the immune system is compromised when we’re under grave stress, making us prone to illness. As quoted in SCL health “One study found that people who were hugged and felt socially supported also experienced less severe signs of sickness.”

Despite the pandemic, hugs may prevent you from getting sick. A 10-second hug boosts your immune system, eases depression, and lessens fatigue. 

Improve Self-esteem

According to the Association for Psychological Science, “Touch May Alleviate Existential Fears for People With Low Self-Esteem”. 

In a series of studies published in Psychological Science, as quoted by the Association for Psychological Science, “Koole and colleagues tested the hypothesis that people with low self-esteem deal with existential concerns by connecting with others.”

“Our findings show that even touching an inanimate object — such as a teddy bear — can soothe existential fears,” notes Koole. “Interpersonal touch is such a powerful mechanism that even objects that simulate touch by another person may help to instil in people a sense of existential significance.”

Make us happier 

Hugging releases oxytocin, our love hormone– which helps us develop trust in our relationships. Also, oxytocin can eliminate fear and anxiety during social situations. 

As quoted in Healthline, Family therapist Virginia Satir once said, “We need four hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.” 

The new normal calls for touch-with-caution, being more mindful of hygiene before getting or giving a hug is imperative, but nevertheless, hugs make life better, clearly.