I was recently reading this article titled Big Love, by Gretchen Rubin in Good Housekeeping. Rubin talks about something that is near and dear to my heart, “Giving Proofs of Love.” Proofs of love are simple enough acts such as giving a hug. However the act of hugging proves to be more beneficial than one may think.
Studies show us that hugs contribute to health and happiness. It has also shown that the more you hug the happier you are. This is due to the chemicals oxytocin and serotonin that are released to ideal levels during hugs. Rubin expresses in her article that her research has found that hugs can “relieve stress, boosts feelings of closeness and even squelches pain.” A study also found that when people were assigned to hug a variety of people they became happier. I also found that hugging can lower your blood pressure and lower your heart rate. So not only can hugs make you happy but in term they are also heart healthy!
Homework today: Hug at least five people for at least six seconds! If a total of thirty seconds a day can increase the joy in your life I encourage you to take the step to better your day!
Interesting! Half year ago, I saw a Taiwanese artist also did the same thing. She gave herself an assignment--to hug 10000 people. Truely,a hug can make people feeling comfort while it's not in a good mood.
ReplyDeleteI really do like this post because it not only advices of on how to have a happier day but also how one thing can in fact make us happier. I personally agree with what you saying in this post, becaue I have been able to see the difference in how giving hugs could change ones mood, and into having a healthier life. :)
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