Hugging

By A Basque in Boise January 29, 2013 Chico, KBOI, News, Random 10 Comments

It might be because I come from a culture where personal space is a foreign a concept, where greeting your friends with hugs and kisses is customary, and touching their arm while you talk is part of the conversation, but I always knew that there was something to hugging. It’s instinctive, something you do automatically when a friend is struggling or your kid takes a tumble and scrapes his knee.

On my way to work this morning I found out why, scientifically speaking. According to an article published a few days ago in the Huffington Post, a researcher at the Medical University of Vienna pointed out that hugging someone you care about can ease stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure and even boost memory.

Experts believe it all comes back to the hormone oxytocin. A simple embrace seems to increase levels of the “love hormone,” which has been linked to social bonding. In one study, the stress-reducing effects of a brief hug in the morning carried throughout a tough work day, USA Today reported.

So, although we all know that a hug won’t get your brother his girlfriend back or magically cure your daughter’s owie, it has been proven that it will definitely make them feel better.

Now, as far as flu protection goes, I better get myself an appointment at the local Walgreens.

Thanks for passing by: ↓

Donald

10 thoughts on “Hugging”

mrsmole January 29, 2013 at 12:08

Even more beneficial is getting a massage, studies show it can lengthen your life and boost your immune system. In my job as a seamstress, a monthly massage helps release tension from all the physical strain involved with working on bridal gowns. Hugging my clients when the enter and leave gives them a feeling that everything will be OK as well.
Diana January 29, 2013 at 16:09

I love hugs.
Henar Chico January 29, 2013 at 16:11

I hope to squish you soon!@Diana
Kathy January 31, 2013 at 19:49

I have known this for years! Just ask JC. He is called upon to provide therapy. Hugs are always welcome from those you care about. k
Henar Chico January 31, 2013 at 19:58

Haha, what a great job he has, isn’t that right? Well, maybe the kids and I can get a treatment session this weekend, I’ll give you a call.
Kathy February 4, 2013 at 21:23

Love the photo. Can you send it to me? K
Henar Chico February 4, 2013 at 22:39

On its way!
Donald August 21, 2013 at 9:59

We start with a hug, over to a massage and finishing it with a happy ending… no more stress!
Henar Chico Post authorAugust 21, 2013 at 10:01

When are you free?
Donald August 21, 2013 at 15:39

In the immortal words of Illya Kuryakin:
“No man is free who works for a living. But, I’m available.”