The Power Of Touch In (Almost) Every Type Of Relationship

The Physical + Emotional Benefits Of Touch

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The benefits of physical touch last beyond the moment of the hug, the hand hold, or the gentle palm on the shoulder. Humans are social creatures who need to be physically close to others in order to enjoy optimal health. Physical affection shouldn’t only be seen as a pleasure or a luxury but as a necessity. Below are some of the proven physical and emotional benefits of regular physical affection:

• Lower blood pressure. Research published the National Library of Medicine (NLM) shows that physical affection can nearly instantly lower one’s blood pressure.
• Improve sleep. Regular physical touch can lead to better sleep. Plus, research out of the Center for Integrative Psychiatry reported on Healthline shows that sleeping next to a loved one increases REM sleep.
• Reduce inflammation. The same NLM study that showed the blood pressure benefits of touch also found a correlation between regular physical touch and lower inflammation rates in the body.
• Stress reduction. The NLM report further showed that physical touch can lower cortisol levels and help people through stressful times.
• Improve teen behavior and wellbeing. This is an especially critical piece of data for parents: being affectionate with your children from a young age can reduce their chances of adolescent violence and drug use, according to a report published in the NLM.
• Improved relationships. Another study reported in the NLM found that regular physical touch can lead to greater self-reported relationship satisfaction.