Ring for a Hug! - Day 87 - Daily Content Challenge
The bell I want to share with you today reminds us of the importance of our mental health.
Why do humans need hugs?
Hugging can help lower blood pressure and thus reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack, or stroke. Hugging also boosts self esteem.
Hugs can make you feel happier. Touch is a powerful language that we can use to convey feelings of safety, love and connection.
When people hug for 20 seconds or more, the chemical called oxytocin is released in our bodies. Oxytocin has been shown to boost our immune system and to reduce stress.
When you go without hugs, your brain starts to release more of the stress hormone called cortisol. As time goes on and you don’t receive physical touch to relieve the stress, you start to feel wound up.
While hugging is good for your health, it is a risky activity during the pandemic.
Here are three suggestions to help you when you are all alone and need a hug.
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Cuddle up under a blanket and hug some of your stuffed animals. This can provide similar comfort to a hug when you are on your own.
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Jump on a zoom call and interact with family and friends. This will help you feel closer to people. Seeing them and talking to them is much better than just thinking about them.
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If you miss being with others that can give you a hug back, then owning a pet or parenting a plant can provide alternative ways to care for something.
So, if you want to feel better about yourself, reduce your stress, be happier and healthier, giving and asking for more hugs is a good place to start. Just do it safely during the pandemic.
Reach out, pick up my bell and Ring for a Hug!
