Hugging Is Breathing The Essence Of People

Hugging  is a simple, everyday gesture that everyone can do. However, many times we forget its ability to relieve and bring people closer, of that power of union and connection that it keeps.

Words are important, of course! In fact, the saying that gestures are worth more than words is not always true. Sometimes talking about problems is the best way to fix them. But accompanying our words with this gesture or simply giving a silent hug may be the best remedy.

The benefits of a hug

As we have seen, hugging not only connects us to others but also comforts and accompanies the discomfort of others. But beyond this, a hug has much more benefits:

• Decreases the secretion of cortisol (a hormone produced by the body in times of stress).
• Regulates blood pressure.
• Improve communication between two people.
• Increase our self-esteem.
• It causes a feeling of  security and protection due to the secretion of oxytocin (whose main function is to make the individual feel good and loving).
• Activates the receptors of our skin.

Can a hug, like vitamins, keep you away from the doctor?

According to a Carnegie Mellon University study led by Sheldon Cohen (Professor of Psychology at Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences at CMU Robert E. Doherty University) this idea is not far from reality. Cohen and his team decided to study hugs as an example of social support because hugs are typically a marker of having a more intimate and close relationship with another person.

“We know that people who experience conflict with others are less able to fight cold viruses. We also know that people who claim to have social support are partially protected from the effects of stress on psychological states such as depression and anxiety “

Regarding the study, Cohen has suggested that  ” being hugged by a trusted person can act as an effective means of transmitting support, and increasing its frequency, an effective means to reduce the harmful effects of stress.”

Anyway, we don’t have to go that far, nor do we need more data to confirm that hugs are one of the best remedies.

Hugging is free

Free Hugs  arose from an anecdote by Juan Mann: a man whose only mission was to reach out and hug a stranger to brighten his day. The effects of the campaign went viral and the phenomenon spread.

Just hug

Now think of yourself, your environment, your people, your hugs. Think of times when a tense situation would have calmed down or just those that make you enjoy yourself. Accompanying with this gesture the good morning when you get up, in a happy situation to congratulate someone or after a discussion is to connect with the most basic of ourselves.

It’s funny to think of the last time we hugged just because, unconditionally. Free of routines and commitments when doing it. In fact, at the end of this article you could approach the person next to you at home and give him a long hug, which freezes time. That lasts at least 8 seconds. And very strong of course.