Physical touch from someone you trust, especially hugging, releases oxytocin and reduces stress and pain. A shoulder rub or hug triggers the body's calming response. Always ask first.
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When you are frustrated, worried, or any other form of stress is manifesting inside of you, a shoulder rub, simple touch, or hug from someone important to you makes a big difference in relieving your anxiety. It's because we are humans, and one of our 5 primary senses is touch. Hugging has a particularly strong and calming effect on us, and it reassures us that everything is going to be all right. Scientific proof shows us that touching is one of the primary ways to release oxytocin, sometimes referred to as the love hormone, because it elevates during hugging and orgasm. Touching someone you love also has been scientifically proven to reduce pain, and giving giving a hug to someone who needs it can also help reduce the stress you feel. Of course, before you offer a hug, be mindful of the other person's boundaries, including whether or not you both should be wearing face masks.