Joy Onuorah

We hug others when we’re excited, happy, sad, or trying to comfort. Hugging, it seems, is universally comforting makes one feel good.

And it turns out that hugging is proven to make us healthier and happier. According to scientists, the benefits of hugging go beyond that warm feeling you get when you hold someone in your arms.

Hugs reduces stress

Scientists say that giving another person support through touch can reduce the stress of the person being comforted. It can even reduce the stress of the person doing the comforting.

Hugs may protect against illness

The stress-reducing effects of hugging might also work to keep you healthier.

Hugs may boost heart health

Hugging can be good for your heart health. According to findings, an affectionate relationship may be good for you heart health.

Hugs can make one happier

Oxytocin is a chemical in our bodies that scientists sometimes call the “cuddle hormone.” This is because its levels rise when we hug, touch, or sit close to someone else.

Hugs can help reduce one’s fears

Scientists have found that touch can reduce anxiety in people with low self-esteem. Touch can also keep people from isolating themselves when reminded of their mortality.

Hugs may help reduce pain

Research suggests some forms of touch may be capable of reducing pain. Hugging is another form of touch that may help reduce pain.

Hugs aids communication

Most human communication occurs verbally or through facial expressions. But touch is another important way that people can send messages to one another.

Hugging is a very comforting and communicative type of touch.