Reduces Stress and Anxiety- A good hug slows down the heart rate and decreases our bodies’ stress hormone cortisol level. In turn, hugging makes us feel calm, safe, and relaxed. The less reactive we are to stress, the better we regulate our emotions. Some studies have also shown that a daily dose of hugging can also lower heart rate and blood pressure. In the research, those who received a hug had lower blood pressure and heart rate, with lead authors believing that oxytocin (a hormone that plays a role in social bonding) is the cause of their better health.

Strengthens Relationships: When we hug someone, our bodies get a surge of oxytocin—also known as the love hormone. Oxytocin helps us bond with loved ones, whether a mother and baby, romantic partners, or close friends. With a simple touch, releasing oxytocin can instantly make us feel more connected, reducing feelings of loneliness.

Boosts Self-Esteem- Not only do hugs help us feel closer to others, but they also help us feel happier with ourselves. Social touch can boost serotonin and dopamine levels and release endorphins—the “feel good” hormones and natural pain relievers. Endorphins are most commonly associated with exercise, but we can still get that instant mood boost from hugs. And in the long run, loving touch has been shown to create and sustain a healthy sense of self.

According to some studies, infants who receive more nurturing touch during their early developmental stages are less reactive to stressors and show lower anxiety levels.

References

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15740822/

https://parentingscience.com/stress-in-babies/#:~:text=As%20noted%20above%2C%20nurturing%20touch,endogenous%20opioids%20(natural%20painkillers).