Hugs heal: scientists have confirmed the health benefits of touching

You’ve probably guessed that hugging is good for your health. Now there’s a scientific basis for that claim. In a new study, scientists from the Ruhr University Bochum and the Netherlands Institute of Neuroscience not only confirmed the benefits of touching, but were also able to point out some features of tactile interaction.

The review showed that touch can relieve pain and reduce anxiety. And the positive effects are the same for both children and adults. Although the type of touch (from a hug to a massage) is not important, it is touches in the head area, such as stroking, that work best. Short and frequent touches have also been shown to have a greater effect.