Here are six reasons why you should be cuddling up to your nearest - TopicsExpress



          

Here are six reasons why you should be cuddling up to your nearest and dearest. Hugging gives you confidence A hug can instantly boost your levels of oxytocin, an amazing hormone that can make you feel more optimistic, boost your self-esteem and help you overcome social fears. Studies have found that oxytocin can help people who struggle with shyness and those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, and is even being considered as a method of helping people with social disorders such as autism. Hugging helps you relax When you’re stressed your body releases a hormone called cortisol. If you have high levels of cortisol in your blood stream you are at risk from things such as high blood pressure, lower immunity and even increased abdominal fat. Oxytocin reduces cortisol in your body, lowering your blood pressure and making you calmer. Hugging makes you feel instantly happier Alongside oxytocin, hugging releases serotonin, a chemical that lifts your mood and makes you feel happier. However, you have to make sure it’s a good, long hug – 20 seconds will do it, but the longer the embrace, the happier you’ll be. Hugging boosts your immune system A nice, tight squeeze puts gentle pressure on your sternum and stimulates your thymus gland, which is responsible for producing white blood cells in your body. These cells are the ones that help your body prevent and fight disease, so they’re vital to your overall health. Hugging can heal pain Amazingly, oxytocin can help to heal wounds due to its anti-inflammatory properties. A rise in oxytocin levels can also relieve pain, so next time you find yourself with a headache or period pains, make sure you get a good, long hug and you’ll soon start to feel better. Hugging can help you recover after a work out Hugging relaxes your muscles and releases tension, allowing blood flow to your soft tissue to increase. Good circulation of blood allows your body to recover quicker from the stress caused by your workout, so once you’ve done your cool down exercises grab some hugs and you’ll avoid those post-exercise aches and pains
Posted on: Thu, 15 Jan 2015 08:35:37 +0000

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