Stories

Why Are Hugs Good for Our Wellbeing?

The act of physical contact during a hug not only provides a sense of safety and love, but also contributes directly to our self-esteem. The hugs we receive during our lives play a significant role in shaping our confidence and happiness.

Looking at children who grow up in a nurturing family, the benefits are immense. Children who are held, hugged, and cuddled more tend to be more confident, sleep better, and have healthier relationships. The bond between parents and the child forms a secure attachment that enables the child to explore and grow with confidence in their relationships.

There are three main hormones released during a hug or cuddle: Oxytocin, Dopamine, and Serotonin. 

Oxytocin, known as the love hormone, not only aids in labor and breastfeeding, but is also released when we fall in love. Touch, such as holding hands or hugs, relieves stress, boosts heart health by lowering blood pressure, and provides a sense of comfort, relaxation, trust, and overall psychological stability.

Dopamine, the pleasure, satisfaction, and motivation hormone, activates areas of our brain to make us feel good, serving as a reward mechanism. This hormone influences learning, attention, mood, sleep, pain processing, lactation, and the functions of the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels.

Serotonin, a neurotransmitter with a key role in various bodily functions such as memory, fear, stress response, digestion, addiction, sexuality, sleep, breathing, and body temperature, serves as a mood booster. 

A hug or cuddle also reduces levels of cortisol, the primary stress hormone. Cuddling your baby strengthens the bond between you and your child. Hugs improve wellness, mood, self-esteem, and release body tension. The sensation of safety and love by being held by a loved one gives a self-esteem boost and is linked to improving our happiness and confidence.