Coach Ziana, Cognitive Behavioral Therapist...coach-ziana.com.

Coach Ziana

You are so much more than you think you are.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapist.
Certified Life Coach.
Relationship Cousellor.

coach-ziana.com

The Benefits of Hugging

Don't let them fool you. You are not your fancy car, your modern devices, implants, body type, hair color, designer clothing, or anything else that Social Media pressures you into being. If you could grow into the greatest "you" that you were meant to be, you'd never need to copy anyone else -- ever again. You would be the "influencer," not the "influenced."

Coach Ziana.

Certifications:

CBT Practitioner
Relationship Counsellor
Life Coach
Social Psychology
Advanced Psychology
Advanced Neuroscience of Normal and Abnormal Human Behaviour
Neuroplasticity

The Benefits of Hugging:

Hugging offers physical and mental health benefits by triggering the release of "feel-good" neurochemicals like oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine. These effects range from reduced stress and improved mood to a stronger immune system and enhanced relationships.

Stating the obvious before digging into this: Be sure the person you're hugging WANTS to be hugged.

Here is a list of Mental and Emotional Benefits:

Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Hugs lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which helps manage daily stressors and promotes a sense of safety and calm.
Boosts Mood and Self-Esteem: The release of serotonin and dopamine during a hug acts as a natural antidepressant, elevating mood, increasing feelings of happiness, and reducing loneliness.
Soothes Fears: Touch can reduce anxiety, especially in people with low self-esteem, and can prevent individuals from isolating themselves during difficult times.
Strengthens Relationships: Oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," builds trust, empathy, and emotional attachment, which is crucial for healthy romantic relationships, friendships, and parent-child bonds. ( Note: Be aware that some folks don't approve of their partners/spouses getting too friendly with others. That's just common sense. I'm sure you can figure that out for yourself.)
Facilitates Communication: Hugging is a powerful form of non-verbal communication that can express empathy, support, and understanding when words are difficult to find, helping to resolve conflicts more effectively.

Physical Health Benefits:

Improves Heart Health: By lowering blood pressure and heart rate, regular hugging contributes to better cardiovascular health and helps mitigate the risks associated with chronic stress.
Boosts the Immune System: Studies suggest that the social support and frequent hugs can help protect against common viruses. Even if you get sick, the symptoms may be less severe.
Relieves Pain: Hugs trigger the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and the oxytocin released can help block pain signals, easing both physical and emotional aches.
Promotes Better Sleep: The calming effects of oxytocin and serotonin can make it easier to fall and stay asleep, improving overall sleep quality.
Aids Infant Development: Skin-to-skin contact, like the practice of Kangaroo Mother Care, is vital for a baby's health, helping to stabilize their temperature, improve oxygen levels, and foster healthy brain development and attachment.

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Photo Credit: Tima Miroshnichenko

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