From a mother's cradling embrace to a friend's comforting hug, or a lover's caress, touch has a special effect on those who need it the most. Outward gestures of affection have an immediate impact on someone who is in a time of need or crisis.
According to RealAge.com, cultivating good relationships brings lots of perks, not the least of which is stress reduction. During troubled times, a good friend or family member can offer a lot by helping you talk through real-life troubles while offering a simple touch such as holding your hand or putting their arm around your shoulder.
An additional benefit is a better immune system - which means faster healing and less risk of infection after surgery or major illness. In a recent article on WebMd.com, psychologists have noted the effects of human touch and healing on patients either before or after surgery. Read more about the health benefits of massage therapy on CNN.com.
So the next time you see a tense look on a loved one's face - reach out and put your arm around their shoulder or offer a hug. You'll do wonders for their stress level, as well as your own.
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