Love is patient, love is kind, love is good for you! Love and loving relationships have powerful health effects that can help you live a longer, fuller life. Cuddle up to your sweetie, friends, family, and even pets for these benefits:
Stress Less
Multiple studies show that acts of affection such as hugging play a significant role in lowering the levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. This has heart-protective benefits and can even help combat acne!
Live Longer
Feeling connected to family, friends, and co-workers is essential for your health and longevity. Researchers found that cancer patients with a strong sense of connection to others had more cancercombatting cell activity at the site of the tumor than those who lacked satisfying relationships. This can be attributed to a consistent support network and accountability partner.
Boost positive hormones
The feel-good hormones dopamine, which is a source of energy and optimism, and oxytocin, which helps you relax, are both increased by feeling and expressing love. Fun fact: a study at the University of North Carolina found that hugging raised levels of oxytocin and, as a result, significantly lowered blood pressure!
Enhanced immunity
Love and a strong sense of connection have been linked to higher white blood cell counts. These blood cells help fight off diseases and infections from the common cold to cancer.
Sources: prevention.com, newsinhealth.nih.gov, positivepsychologynew.com, growyouthful.com
