It’s true that you can feel better just by receiving another’s affectionate touch. After all we all have receptors in our skin that send messages directly to the brain. Just think about the last time you were given a hug or a pat on the back or someone putting their arm around your shoulders. And this feel good sense can be especially strong if the touch is given by a person whom you love or care about. In fact, it has been shown that you can get a boost of Oxytocin, often referred to as “the feel good hormone” from this sort of physical affection. This hormone promotes positive feelings and builds and maintains a positive outlook, which is why it feels so good! Research featured in Biological Psychiatry magazine explains that it’s long lasting too, the benefits of human touch given to newborns being measurable even 10 years after birth.
Similar Posts
Depression in Teenagers
Depression among teenagers is a pervasive and serious concern, affecting their emotional well-being and overall health. The adolescent years mark a period of heightened vulnerability due to hormonal changes, academic stressors, and the complexities of social relationships. Recognizing depression in teenagers can be challenging, as it often manifests through behavioral shifts, such as withdrawal, irritability,…
Q&A: All About Toxic Positivity
What is toxic positivity? Toxic positivity is a term that refers to not only the excessive and insincere encouragement of a positive mindset but also the dismissing or invalidating of negative emotions. It can hinder authentic emotional expression and create pressure to mask true feelings, potentially causing long-term harm to overall mental well-being. Why is…
Caffeine Primer
Caffeine is an extremely popular psychoactive substance and central nervous system stimulant. Most commonly consumed in coffee, it is generally considered safe if consumed if moderate amounts. The Mayo Clinic has concluded that, in general, adults can safely consume up to 400 milligrams (mg) of caffeine a day, approximately the amount in four cups of…
Reducing Stress by Spending Time in Nature
Nature can often serve as a very helpful aid in relaxing for a number of reasons. People associate nature with peace and quiet. In fact, Harvard and Frontiers in Psychology magazine have both reported that even a 20 to 30 minute walk through a park or on a hike can lower your stress hormone levels…
The Loneliness Epidemic and AI
The loneliness epidemic is the growing societal issue of increased feelings of loneliness and social isolation among individuals. It’s influenced by factors like changing social structures and technology, impacting mental and physical well-being. Artificial intelligence has the potential to impact the loneliness epidemic in a number of ways including by providing a form of companionship…
Q&A New Drug for Post Partum Depression
How do traditional therapeutic interventions compare with the potential benefits of the new FDA-approved pill for postpartum depression? The new U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved zuranolone is the first oral medication for the treatment of postpartum depression (PPD), a major depressive episode that usually happens after childbirth. Previously PPD was only treated with an IV…