As Humans We Need Four Hugs a Day

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

A viral post is being shared that says humans need four hugs a day to avoid anxiety and depression.

But American author, Virginia Satir, thinks we need even more than that. She once said, “We need four hugs a day for survival.  We need eight hugs a day for maintenance.  [And] we need 12 hugs a day for growth.”

Turns out a hug does a lot more than make you feel loved.  Scientists say that hugging can help lower cortisol, which is the body’s main stress hormone.  It can even calm your heart rate and reduce blood pressure, too.

Some research also suggests people who get hugged more handle stress better.  And hugs release oxytocin, which is often called the “love hormone.” This helps you feel safe and supported.

Never underestimate the power of a hug.  But please make sure they’re consensual. Someone in the comments said, “Does hugging my dog count?”  And although there was no scientific answer given… yes, it counts.

SOURCE: Forbes