German scientists found that hugs reduce anxiety levels and help people feel happier. The main condition is that hugs must be sincere and voluntary, not formal or forced.
Why Hugs Are Beneficial
Even one full hug a day significantly improves psychological well-being. There is a reduction in negative thoughts and a decrease in the risk of depression by about 35%. The study involved 3,270 residents of Germany.
Physical contact with a loved one sends a signal to the body to calm down: in women participating in the experiments, the level of the stress hormone cortisol decreased after hugs.
How Many Hugs Are Enough
It is logical to assume that the more hugs, the better the effect. In practice, this is not the case:
- Hugs with 1–3 people a day noticeably improve mood and psychological state.
- More than four hugs do not provide additional benefits.
Thus, it is not worth striving to hug everyone in order to "become happier."
Which Hugs Do Not Help
Some hugs can be useless or even harmful:
- Too frequent hugs turn into a formal ritual, lose emotional value, and do not lower cortisol levels.
- Forced hugs may be perceived by the body as stress and have the opposite effect.
The main rule: hugs should be voluntary and sincere.
Hugs Will Not Replace Professional Help
Although hugs are effective in reducing anxiety, they do not replace psychotherapy or medication. In complex psychological situations, it is important to consult specialists.
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