Embrace they are so important that science has already studied them for various reasons. For example, the characteristics of an ideal hug were analyzed. Or its benefits. Because yes, although it may not seem like it, hugging someone you love can be very rewarding in certain circumstances. So much so that, according to a study recently published in PLUS ONE, hugging a loving couple can greatly reduce the stress caused by the later situation. Yes, this effect seen only in women.
Although similar studies have been done before, the effect of hugs on male stress has never been studied. Thus, in this case, scientists Ruhr University Bochum (Germany) took into account people of both sexes in love relationships.
The situation used to measure stress was completely imposed in the laboratory. However, the authors of the study believe that it can be extrapolated to more everyday scenarios. Therefore, it may be beneficial for some women to hug their partner before sex. exams, important meetings or interviews.
The importance of hugs for stress reduction
Total 76 people immersed in a romantic relationship. The couples were divided into two groups who had to take the same test. stress induction. This consisted of dip your hand in an ice water bath for three minutes, while the camera was riveted to his gaze the entire time.
The couples were divided into two groups: in one they were advised to hug each other before the test, and in the other they did nothing. In addition, they were all selected for saliva before and after. The goal was to measure in it cortisol level, a hormone that is closely related to stress. The more stress, the more cortisol and vice versa.
Stress was measured by analyzing levels of the hormone cortisol.
It has been observed that women who hug their partners increased cortisol after the test are much less pronounced than those who did not. This meant that they were less stressed about the test. However, levels were equivalent in men.
As for other stress-related parameters such as blood pressureThere were no significant changes in either sex. However, the fact that the difference in cortisol levels was so significant indicates that hugging had a positive effect on these women.
Is it really only for couples in love?
It is important to note that this study was conducted with few participants, so it would be appropriate to repeat this with more people. Also, this was done with romantic couples, but should be studied with other types of relationships. The authors in the statement mention the possibility of obtaining the same results with the help of “platonic love”.
But one could also observe what happens to hugs between loved ones. non-romantic motives. Just in case, before a stressful situation, try to hug the person closest to you. Obviously, hugging cannot cure depression or generalized stress disorder. Let’s not fall into a pseudo-scientific approach to finding healing qualities in hugs. But they could help us de-stress in time.
Even if you are a man, you can appreciate this hug before a stressful situation. Hugs between people who love each other are always positive, even if there is no romantic love between them. And the truth is, no scientific research is required to confirm this.
Source: Hiper Textual
