04/11/2023
The need for human touch is one of our most basic, primal needs and its effects can positively impact many aspects of the human experience throughout all stages of life. πΏ
From a developmental standpoint, infants literally cannot survive without human touch.
Skin-to-skin contact even in the first hour after birth has been shown to help regulate newbornsβ temperature, heart rate, and breathing, decrease crying but also increase mothers' relaxation. π€±
Researchers have found that one of the most effective ways to benefit from the therapeutic benefits of touch is through massage but also prolonged hugging. π
The positive effects of massage therapy derive from the movement of the skin and the stimulation of pressure receptor cells under the skin. When the skin moves, it increases vagal nerve activity.
The vagus nerve is part of the bodyβs parasympathetic nervous system and is responsible for involuntary functions like digestion, heart rate, and the immune system.
Vagus nerve stimulation can trigger greater physical and mental attentiveness (improving cognitive alertness) and lower the bodyβs stress response.π
This response to touch and skin movement decreases heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels (the hormone released during stress and pain) while increasing oxytocin (a hormone released during moments of human connection and bonding associated with feelings of empathy, love and trust).π
Touch deprivation is correlated with negative health outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and immune system disorders.
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If more hugs and massages mean more health and wellbeing who will you hug today? π©ββ€οΈβπ¨
And who will you massage? Or who could massage you?π
I'm here to assist you in your journey to health and well-being, whether you would like to treat yourself or someone you love, DM me or text to get in touch. πβ¨
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Sara
