The Positive Effects of Embracing

We all have the experience of embracing our loved ones and know what positive psychological effects this human act has on us. Hugging and embracing have numerous effects on humans, which we will explore in this article.

We all have the experience of embracing our loved ones and know what positive psychological effects this human act has on us. But the effects of this act are not limited to a momentary positive feeling. Hugging and embracing have numerous effects on humans, which we will explore in this article.

Embracing and hugging have positive effects on humans, and these positive effects are not just the warmth that flows through our hearts after hugging someone we care about, like a spouse or mother. This act affects our body to such an extent that many scientists believe it is equivalent to the effect of various medications in the body. Also, the contact that occurs between two people during this act allows individuals to face their emotions with greater clarity and effectiveness.

1. Reducing Fear of Death

The results of a study on people's fears and self-esteem, published in the journal "Psychological Science," showed that hugging and physical touch significantly reduce worry and fear of death. The study found that hugging and embracing, even hugging an inanimate object like a plush toy, reduces people's inner and existential fears. Sandra Cole, the lead author of this research, says: "Interpersonal touch is such a powerful mechanism that even an object that simulates interpersonal touch helps instill a sense of existential importance in the individual."

2. Release of Oxytocin

Oxytocin is a neurotransmitter that acts on the limbic system and the emotional center of the brain, increasing feelings of satisfaction, reducing anxiety and stress, and even increasing monogamy in mammals. If we are alive today, this hormone is the cause. This hormone is released during our birth process and makes the mother forget all the excruciating pains of childbirth and, throughout life, love us and want to spend a significant portion of her time with us. The results of research conducted at the University of California show that this hormone has a positive social effect on men, making them kinder and more capable of establishing social relationships and bonds. Also, the higher the level of oxytocin in the body, the lower the blood pressure and heart rate.

This hormone also affects social bonds. Matt Hertenstein, a psychologist at DePauw University, says in this regard: "Oxytocin is a neuropeptide that increases feelings of selflessness, trust, and bonding in an individual. This hormone prepares the biological structure and foundation of the body for connecting with other people." When we hug someone, oxytocin is released from the pituitary gland, resulting in a lower heart rate and cortisol levels. Cortisol is the hormone responsible for stress, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

3. Reducing Heart Rate

Although we all know that embracing someone we love enriches our heart with warmth, study results show this act is also beneficial for the heart itself. In an experiment at the University of North Carolina, two groups were tested; the first group consisted of couples who had no physical contact during the experiment, and the second group consisted of couples who had physical contact. The results of the study on these individuals showed that the heart rate of the first group increased by 10 beats per minute, while it decreased by 5 beats per minute in the second group.

4. Helping to Release More Dopamine, the Hormone of Happiness and Euphoria

Dopamine is one of the most important hormones in the human body, and its levels have numerous effects on individuals. A decrease in this hormone plays a positive role in neurological diseases such as Parkinson's, as well as mood disorders like depression. Procrastination, low self-confidence, and a lack of motivation and enthusiasm in humans occur as a result of dopamine deficiency in the body, and it has been said that hugging helps regulate this hormone. Dopamine is responsible for the feeling of well-being and providing motivation in humans. Hugging stimulates the brain to release dopamine, the hormone of happiness and euphoria. PET and MRI scans of individuals show that when you embrace a loved one or listen to music that excites you, your brain releases dopamine even before you begin these activities.

5. Helping to Increase Serotonin Secretion

Serotonin flows in the body when you feel important. Isolation and depression occur in the absence of this substance. Perhaps one of the reasons people turn to criminal activities is this very substance. Hugging causes the release of endorphins and serotonin into the blood, and as a result, the individual feels euphoria, their pains and sorrows decrease, the risk of heart disease is reduced, the person loses weight, and ultimately their lifespan increases. Even petting domestic animals has a positive effect on reducing stress levels in an individual. Prolonged hugging increases serotonin levels in the blood, thereby improving the person's mood and leading to a happier life.

6. Children who are hugged more experience less stress in adulthood. Would you like to do something positive for the next generation? Hug them in childhood. The results of a study conducted at Emory University on mice show a connection between physical contact and reduced stress, especially in the early stages of life. This study states that the same principle can be applied to humans. Consequently, children's stress in adulthood depends on both their nature and the type of upbringing they receive.

7. Balance in the Parasympathetic Nerves

Hugging balances the nervous system. The skin contains a network of tiny, egg-shaped pressure centers called Pacinian corpuscles. These corpuscles, which are connected to the brain via the vagus nerve, create the sense of touch in an individual. The galvanic skin response in a person being hugged shows a change in their skin conductivity. The effect on skin moisture and electricity leads to balance in the body's parasympathetic nervous system.

8. Strengthening the Immune System

Study results show that the hormones released in the body due to hugging (the hormones mentioned above) also help regulate the immune system. This also has a profound effect on how various body systems, including the immune system, interact. By strengthening the immune system, the body's interaction with physical and social stresses is also enhanced.

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The Positive Effects of Embracing

Translator: Milad Shakib

Source: Vidoal

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