Did you know that hugging is has a powerful impact on lowing blood pressure, increasing happiness and feelings of security, even reducing physical pain? We know that activities like exercising, meditation, and keeping things simple have a positive affect on your physical and mental health, but Hugging? YEP!
Neuoeconomist, Paul Zak, also known as “Dr. Love,” recommends at least eight hugs a day to happier and enjoy better relationship. Psochotherapist, Viginia Satir also famously said:
“We need 4 hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.”
When we hug, oxytocin is released into our bodies by our pituitary gland. Oxytocin lowers heart rates and cortisol levels. Cortisol is the hormone released as a response to stress and in normal function is essential, but a sustained high level, which is common for a “rushed bride,” have negative side effects. In addition to interfering with fat release, it will impair digestion, mental function and weaken your immune system. Hugging your man is an enjoyable and completely painless remedy for reducing stress, which will lower your cortisol levels!
Physical touch is one of the five love languages. If you don’t know your top love languages, take the quiz to find out. Knowing your top love languages and your fiancé’s is vital in a thriving (not surviving) relationship. Even if physical touch isn’t one of your top two, you will reap the undeniable benefits of hugging your guy.
Most of the suggestions on how long you need to hug to get the benefits are 20 seconds. This is no problem for me, but may be too long for some. I suggest to find what works best for you and your partner.
BOTTOM LINE: Hugging is an incredible and simple way to not only bond with your fiancé but also boost your physical and emotional health.
Add more and longer hugs with your fiancé in your day for an experiment and see if you feel calmer, more loved, and happier? Leave your comments and results below. For more simple steps to live “happier & healthier ever after,” and get wedding dress ready for the big day, purchase 12 Weeks To A Fit (Exceptional) Bride today! Looking forward to supporting you in getting Bride Fit!
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