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 help you feel better?

The effect of touch on well-being

We are social beings. 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 the brain, allowing it to respond. From birth, touch is one of the main ways we interact with each other.

Lack of physical touch can affect mental health — most commonly showing up as increased stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression or insomnia. If you have any of these symptoms, it's very likely you need positive contact with another living being.

When you experience positive touch, such as a hug, your brain releases oxytocin — the "love hormone" — which has a positive effect on social behaviour and enhances a sense of peace, trust and psychological stability. Positive touch can also trigger the release of serotonin (the body's natural antidepressant) and dopamine (linked to pleasure, reward and motivation).

Massage can fulfil this need

Massage is a surefire way to get much-needed touch. It provides the benefits of positive touch — proven to reduce stress levels, relieve depression and improve sleep quality.

If you want to enjoy what a pleasant touch provides, book a massage session — I'll help you feel better.