Benefits of hugging (Thinkstock photos/Getty Images)
Hugging therapy is said to be a powerful way of healing.
Research shows that hugging is extremely effective at healing sickness, disease, loneliness, depression, anxiety and stress. Here are listed some of the positive effects of hugging:
1. The nurturing touch of a hug builds trust and a sense of safety. This helps with open and honest communication.
2. Hugs can instantly boost oxytocin levels, which heal feelings of loneliness, isolation, and anger. Holding a hug for an extended time lifts one's serotonin levels, elevating mood leading to happiness.
3. Hugging boosts self-esteem. Everybody wants to be loved and treated special. The associations of self-worth from our early years are still embedded in our nervous system as adults. The hugs and cuddle we received from our near and dear ones while growing up remain imprinted at a cellular level. Hugs, therefore, connect us to our ability to self love.
4. Hugging relaxes muscles. Hugs release tension in the body. Hugs can take away pain; they soothe aches by increasing circulation into the soft tissues.
5. Hugs balance out the nervous system.
6. Hugs teach us how to give and receive. There is equal value in receiving and being receptive to warmth, as to giving and sharing. Hugs educate us how love flows both ways.
7. Hugs are like meditation and laughter. They teach us to let go and be present in the moment. They encourage us to flow with the energy of life. Hugs get you out of your circular thinking patterns and connect you with your heart and your feelings and your breath.
8. The energy exchange between the people hugging is an investment in the relationship. It encourages empathy and understanding.
