In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become an unavoidable part of life. While there are countless ways to manage stress, one of the simplest and most natural remedies is often overlooked—hugs.

Science has shown that a warm embrace does more than just provide emotional comfort; it has a profound impact on our physiological and psychological well-being. Multiple studies have revealed how hugging can effectively reduce stress and improve overall health. Let’s explore the science behind this comforting gesture and its benefits.

The biopsychological link between hugs and stress reduction

A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (Romney et al., 2023) examined the biological mechanisms through which hugs help regulate stress. The research team at Brigham Young University used ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to track volunteers’ hugging habits over time.

They discovered a strong link between the frequency of hugs and the body’s cortisol awakening response (CAR), a key indicator of stress regulation.

Participants who reported receiving more frequent hugs had significantly lower levels of Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) the following morning compared to those who received fewer hugs. This correlation remained consistent even when accounting for variables such as biological sex and individual differences in hugging frequency, underscoring the clear stress-relieving benefits of hugging.

The dual benefit of touch: Comforting giver and receiver

Another study published under the National Institutes of Health (NIH) explored the impact of physical touch in reducing stress. In this study, 20 heterosexual couples participated in an experiment where the men were subjected to mild electric shocks while their female partners held their arms.

Researchers observed that the women’s brain activity reflected reduced stress responses while showing increased activity in regions associated with maternal reward.

This suggests that providing comfort through touch not only helps the recipient but also benefits the person offering the hug. The simple act of embracing someone can create a shared experience of emotional relief, fostering deeper emotional connections and reducing stress for both individuals involved.

The role of oxytocin: 'Cuddle hormone' effect

A separate NIH study further supports the idea that hugs are a natural stress reliever, largely due to their ability to boost oxytocin levels. Often referred to as the “cuddle hormone,” oxytocin is released during physical touch, leading to increased happiness and decreased stress.

This study found that oxytocin had particularly strong effects in women, promoting lower blood pressure and reducing norepinephrine, a hormone associated with the body’s stress response. Additionally, women who experienced frequent hugs with their romantic partners reported greater emotional well-being.

The benefits of oxytocin were also observed when mothers held their infants closely, further reinforcing the power of physical touch in enhancing emotional stability and reducing stress.

Hugging: Powerful stress-relief tool

The scientific evidence highly supports the idea that hugging is an effective way to manage stress. Whether through lowering cortisol levels, activating the brain’s reward centres, or increasing oxytocin production, the benefits of a simple hug extend beyond momentary comfort. Regular hugs can contribute to better emotional resilience, stronger relationships, and improved overall well-being.

So, the next time you or someone you care about is feeling overwhelmed, consider the power of a heartfelt hug. It’s a natural, scientifically backed way to relieve stress—no prescription required!