Almost anyone who likes to be embraced, even to those who say it is not. Embracing is an immediate way we can connect with those we love, and almost every culture on earth appreciates the feeling of well-being that emits from a warm, physical hug.
If we regularly hug those we love, this can lower our blood pressure and stress levels.
Austrian researchers have discovered that the important oxytocin hormone is secreted into the bloodstream when a person is embraced by a person in whom they are trusted. Oxytocin is produced by the pituitary gland and its secretion can reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure and improve memory. Usually, the pituitary gland secretes oxytocin at times of strong connection, such as when mother nurses her baby or when her husband consoles one another
Hug ...
... makes us feel good
... scatters the feeling of loneliness
... helps us to overcome our fears
... helps us to build our self-esteem
... favors altruism
... controls appetite
... lowers blood pressure
... helps us to fight insomnia
... confirms our physical existence
... reduces the risk of heart disease
... helps lower cortisol levels, especially for women
... regulates the production of hemoglobin
... provides a healthy and safe alternative to alcohol and drugs
... conveys the feeling of 'belonging'
... the effects of embrace occur even when the embrace stops. The physical and emotional improvements that the hugging brings to the body last longer than the embrace itself
... help relieve physical pain
... hugging healing
Embracing, this wonderful exchange of affection, warmth and support is not just about human being. Similar gestures have been observed in other animal species. But other animals like dogs have a tendency to enjoy less than people or other primates of the pleasure they offer a hug. Dogs, for example, interpret the laying of a swan over another dog as a sign of dominance and do not give it the same meaning of protection, affection and support.
A simple hugging can make this world a better place.