Most of us enjoy a good hug with loves ones around this time of year.
And believe it or not, the act of hugging can be immensely stress reducing.
It helps control the release of cortisone which causes anxiety.
It encourages the production of oxytocins that generate a feeling of wellbeing.
And it even releases endorphins that act as natural painkillers.
It can therefore help lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate and relieve muscle tension all in one go!
Research has shown, however, that for a hug to produce these benefits it must be at least 20 seconds in length.
And as the average hug length is only 3 seconds, people are totally missing out on this cost and effort free way to manage anxiety!
So (with appropriate consent and observing cultural norms wherever necessary!), hug it out properly this festive season and reap the stress busting rewards!! 🙂🙃😚❤ xxx
PS some commentators suggest hugging a tree can generate similar benefits, though we would advise discretion in this exercise 👍🙂