The positive power of touch 

  The positive power of touch 

A hug from a loved one or a friend's warm handshake - any kind of good-natured touch gives a nice feeling. But why? What processes occur in the brain when someone touches us? And how can this knowledge of the importance of touch help you feel better? 

The effect of touch on well-being 

We are social beings. This does not require evidence - we feel it. Positive communication with others makes us feel good, while loneliness affects us badly. 

As the body's largest organ, the skin has receptors that transmit sensations of positive and negative touch to our brain, allowing it to respond accordingly. From birth, touch is one of the main ways in which we interact with each other. 

Lack of physical touch can affect your mental health. In different people, it can manifest itself differently, but most often an increase in stress, anxiety, loneliness and depression, insomnia are observed. If you have any of these symptoms, it is very likely that you need positive contact with another living being. 

When you experience a positive physical touch, such as hugs, your brain releases the hormone oxytocin, also called the love hormone. It has a positive effect on social behavior and enhances a sense of peace, trust and psychological stability. A positive touch can also cause the release of serotonin (the body's natural antidepressant) and dopamine (a hormone related to the feeling of pleasure, reward and motivation). 

Massage can fulfill this need 

Massage is a surefire way to get much-needed touches. Massage provides the benefits of a positive touch - it has been proven that regular massage reduces stress levels, relieves depression and improves the quality of sleep. 

If you want to enjoy what a pleasant touch provides, you are invited to book a massage session. I will help you feel better!