The power of physical contact: how a hug can break sadness and stress

In today’s society they are increasingly activities that involve direct physical contact, these are often rejected or fully assumed depending on the person in question. From this fact a question arises: why do some people find it impossible or annoying to come into contact with another? Or on the contrary, why is it so easy for others? (Salgado, SlavicMontes, & Mariño, 2003).

No one can doubt the great communicative and expressive importance that physical contact between people has in our society. Hall in 1969 spoke of this importance in relation to the use of space by humans and, for example, highlighted how the lack of physical contact can alter the physical and mental growth of a baby.

A study by scientists at Duke University in the United States concluded that People need to receive hugs and caresses from the moment we are born.since physical contact plays a very important role in the development of neurons.

Physical contact with a person for whom we feel affection causes our body to release oxytocin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that combat stress and sadness, producing a feeling of well-being. Giving or receiving a hug also increases our serotonin levels, so we improve our mood.

The physical and emotional value of contact

Contact activates a series of physiological mechanisms that contribute to our emotional well-being. Specifically, it decreases the production of cortisol, a hormone related to stress, and increases the production of oxytocin, a hormone related to affection. It also increases serotonin levels, producing a relaxing effect, in addition to lowering blood pressure and heart rate.

Hugging or holding hands for at least ten minutes can reduce the harmful physical effects of stressas indicated by a study carried out by specialists at the University of North Carolina, in Chapel Hill (United States).

In other investigations, it was found that contact activated the cerebral cortex area. This region is all about feelings of conformity and trust. From these results, It was concluded that those who relate to others using touch are perceived as more honest and trustworthy people.

The sense of touch is undervalued and it is really one of the essential senses to be able to survive., especially at early ages, since caresses and contact when we are babies are as important and as basic as eating or sleeping. We progressively go from needing physical contact to settling for the other’s eye contact.

In summary, and Physical contact favors the immune system, reduces stress and induces sleep. It is essential for our physical and mental health, as well as a form of communication with others.

Loneliness alters our brain

Until now it was known that extreme loneliness can cause depression, anxiety, dementia and psychosis in a person., among other disorders. However, a new study allows us to see extra and more dangerous damage that loneliness causes in our brain. The researchers used a group of mice – which are social animals, like us – and put them in an enclosure full of toys, mazes, other distractions, and in social isolation.

According to results published in the journal Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, This social isolation caused a reduction in the volume of the hippocampus in the rodents.a brain region critical for learning and memory.

Although the conclusions cannot be extrapolated to humans, the researchers suggest some possible parallels. This research could indicate that Physical contact and social relationships possibly represent an important factor to take into account for our brain to remain healthy. and that cognitive function does not deteriorate.

In the same study it was concluded that Prolonged loneliness in adulthood produces brain alterations and learning deficits. Social isolation in adulthood is a psychosocial stress factor that can result in endocrinological and behavioral alterations in different species.

It is important that we do not forget these data and that we keep in mind that every time we truly hug someone, we gain life and quality of life.

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