7 Benefits Of Physical Contact In Relationships, By Debbie Okuneye


Physical contact, such as hugging, holding hands, or even a pat on the back, plays a significant role in expressing affection and has numerous health benefits. To add healthy flavors to your relationships, some health and social benefits of physical contact are listed below:

1. Emotional Well-being:

   - Reduces Stress And Anxiety: Physical touch triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress and promotes feelings of happiness and relaxation.

   - Enhances Mood: 

Physical affection can boost levels of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that play key roles in mood regulation and the feeling of pleasure.

2. Physical Health:

   - Lowers Blood Pressure: 

Regular physical touch can help lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease.

   - Boosts Immune System: 

Physical contact can increase the production of natural killer cells, which help combat infections and illnesses.

   - Pain Relief:

Oxytocin released during physical touch can act as a natural painkiller.

3. Social And Relationship Benefits:

   - Strengthens Bonds: 

Physical affection strengthens bonds between individuals, promoting trust and deeper connections.

   - Improves Communication: Non-verbal communication through touch can enhance understanding and empathy between people.

   - Enhances Relationship Satisfaction:

Couples who engage in regular physical touch report higher levels of relationship satisfaction and intimacy.

4. Mental Health:

   - Reduces Symptoms of Depression:

Regular physical contact can help reduce symptoms of depression by increasing levels of oxytocin and other mood-enhancing chemicals.

   - Improves Sleep:

Physical affection can promote better sleep by reducing cortisol levels and increasing feelings of security and comfort.

5. Developmental Benefits:

   - Infant Development: 

Skin-to-skin contact between parents and infants is crucial for healthy development, promoting bonding and emotional security.

   - Childhood Growth:

Regular physical affection is important for children's emotional and psychological development, helping them feel loved and secure.

6. Hormonal Balance:

   - Regulates Cortisol Levels: Physical touch can help regulate cortisol, a stress hormone, reducing chronic stress and its associated health risks.

   - Promotes Oxytocin Release: Known as the "love hormone," oxytocin promotes social bonding and emotional well-being.

7. Longevity:

   - Enhances Longevity:

Studies suggest that individuals who engage in regular physical affection and have strong social connections may live longer, healthier lives.

Overall, physical contact is a fundamental aspect of human interaction that significantly impacts emotional, physical, and social well-being. It is an essential part of maintaining healthy relationships and promoting overall health.

Beyond existing traditional or religious restrictions in some climes, expressive physical affection by couples, should be encouraged by all for the health and social benefits it offers.

What is your opinion on this topic? 

The section on comments is open for your views 

Kindly follow the blog and share with friends. Cheers 😀

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Grace For Perfection In July: A Reflection On Growth And Renewal, By AKO

Transform Your Day With Enthusiasm, By AKO

21 Prophetic Declarations For September, By AKO