The Power of Social Touch: How a Loving Caress Really Can Ease Anxiety

"When Valentine’s Day arrives Tuesday, many people will show their love and affection with cards, chocolates and gifts, but there is another way to make your partner or family member feel good — through touch.

Studies show that social touch is essential to our mental well-being and can reduce stress and pain while helping us bond with one another.

Physical isolation during the coronavirus pandemic led many to develop “skin hunger” and resulted in an uptick in mental health problems.

One 2021 study surveying almost 1,500 participants reported that deprivation of intimate touch from close family and partners was associated with worse feelings of anxiety and loneliness.

The benefits of social touch

Social touch causes the release of the social-bonding hormone oxytocin in the brain, which is thought to reduce anxiety and pain.

Von Mohr’s research has found that romantic partners felt less pain when receiving slow, stroking touch compared with a faster touch. Other studies have found that touch enhances intimacy between couples.

From skin to brain for pleasurable social touch

Research suggests that social-touch-sensitive neurons may be key for making the touch of a loved one feel good, which in turn helps bind us.

With just a hug, a caress or a gentle squeeze of the hand, we can already take advantage of the power of social touch.

To feel better, healthier and more connected, skin deep is a good place to start."

Read the full article on The Washington Post