A hug conveys a feeling of security, confidence and protection. A warm hug is magical for each of us. It is a form of expression of our love for a human being. Touch is a need of every person, it launches a plethora of positive emotions that in simple words make the child and each of us feel beautiful.
Children need this touch, it is an intense touch that the rainbow of their upbringing needs. A hug is a guarantee for the formation of a strong personality of a child and expelling fear and insecurity. It has been studied and proven to have a beneficial effect on the mental and physical health of children and adults.Every year on January 21st, World Hug Day is celebrated. An idea that was motivated in 1986 by Student Kevin Zaborney and has been adopted by several countries around the world. At the same time, The Touch Research Institute has been established in Miami in a special center that deals with the development of children.
What do scientific studies say about the importance of a hug?In addition to the benefits of cuddling in the emotional and mental realm of children, cuddling seems to play an important role in the physical health of children.• Reduces stress
A hug helps relieve stress. Physical contact appears to inhibit the secretion of cortisol, a hormone secreted by the body under stress. A publication in the scientific journal Scientific American showed that children living in orphanages had higher levels of cortisol than children living with their parents and enjoying daily caresses and hugs. Researchers speculate that lack of physical contact is one of the reasons for higher levels of the stress hormone in children growing up in institutions.
• Strengthens the body's defenses against diseaseResearchers from Carnegie Mellon's Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences, according to the results of research work, point out that the perceived embrace has positive effects on the body's immune system and is a sample of social support. In fact, they suggest the saying "one hug a day drives the doctor further". In cases of an illness, a hug to the patient is a natural manifestation of social support, reassures him, has a calming effect and reduces stress levels which suppress the body's defenses. The human body in response to stressful situations releases from the adrenal cortex a hormone called cortisol, commonly known as the "stress hormone", which restores the body's homeostasis (ie its proper functioning) in response to stress. In their study, they found that patients who had the arms of their own people and therefore social support had less severe symptoms and recovered faster.
• Hugging increases the hormone oxytocin and stimulates the secretion of endorphins by the bodyA hug helps secrete a hormone called oxytocin, which is the hormone of well-being. Touching by irritating nerve endings in the skin signals the brain to produce oxytocin. Endorphins and oxytocin when secreted by our body make us feel beautiful.
• Improves the health of newborns hospitalized in intensive care unitsIn neonates admitted to intensive care units, frequent physical contact leads to an improvement in vital signs as has been shown by several studies. In this case, parents are encouraged to get in touch with their children as often as their general condition allows, because on the one hand physical contact has a positive effect on the health of their children and on the other hand reduces parental stress.
So why hug our children?• Everyone loves and thirsts for a hug. Hugging can work wonders in any relationship. Watch carefully how strong your bond with your children is when your cuddle accompanies you. A hug makes life easier for everyone. Less aggression from children, more cooperation and obedience, building a strong link with your children, a sense of security and confidence.• There is no age limit for children to hug. Hug your children when they are babies, toddlers, older children, teens and adults.
• Research has shown that human touch increases survival expectancy as it has a beneficial effect on body, mind and soul.• The touch of the parent is an essential component for human growth and development and in general the upbringing of a child. Hugging boosts self-esteem and brings a sense of security in a way that no language can.• It is part of human nature. Physical contact cultivates the feeling that they love us, some people care about us, it launches stress, worries and strengthens human bonds.
So remember:1. Say good morning to your children with a smile and a sweet hug.2. Say goodnight to your children with a hug and a kiss.3. Say thank you to your child along with a hug.4. A hug is the best medicine when you are exhausted and tired.5. Tender embrace is the magic cure for difficult situations such as bullying, illness, failure.
Source: Dr. Elisabeth Efstathiou, Pediatrician
