March 02, 2016 at 04:24PM

Did you know hugs and affection can dramatically reduce blood pressure and improve the health of your heart? Hugging someone also releases oxytocin, which is also known as the feel-good hormone. This oxytocin chemical is actually somewhat contagious: "Studies have shown that children whose mothers have been given extra oxytocin have higher levels of the hormone themselves, i.e. solely as a result of the mother’s behaviour.” says neurophysiologist Jürgen Sandkühler, Head of the Centre for Brain Research at the Medical University of Vienna. A brief hug and 10 minutes of handholding with a romantic partner greatly reduce the harmful physical effects of stress, according to a study reported by the American Psychosomatic Society. Hugging and also been linked to improved memory due to the lowered stress levels. Hugging and showing love is more than just emotionally healthy for you, it can also scientifically improve the health of your body. http://ift.tt/1yabZK2 #ssg
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