Welcome to Staying Well!

Trivia Question❓

What is the term for the immediate skin-to-skin contact between a newborn and parent after birth, which has been shown to regulate the baby’s temperature, heart rate, and promote bonding?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

The Healing Power of Human Touch — Why Hugs and Massage Matter

In an age of digital connection, it’s easy to forget the power of physical presence. Yet one of the most profound tools for health and healing doesn’t come from a pill, a supplement, or a workout—it comes from human touch. Whether it’s a hug, a reassuring hand on the shoulder, or a therapeutic massage, touch has been shown to lower stress, ease pain, boost immunity, and support emotional well-being. It’s not just comforting—it’s biologically essential.

Touch is the first sense we develop in the womb, and it remains one of the most effective ways to communicate care, safety, and connection throughout our lives. When we experience positive physical contact, our bodies release oxytocin—often called the “love hormone”—which reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), lowers blood pressure, and promotes a sense of trust and bonding. Just a 20-second hug can initiate this chemical cascade, leaving us calmer, happier, and more grounded.

Massage therapy takes this concept even further, combining intentional touch with targeted techniques to relieve tension, improve circulation, and activate the body’s natural healing processes. Studies have shown that regular massage can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and chronic pain. It also boosts lymphatic flow, helping the body detox more efficiently, and supports the parasympathetic nervous system, encouraging deep rest and restoration.

But you don’t need a professional massage to benefit. Even simple practices like self-massage, partner foot rubs, or mindful touch during skincare routines can be powerful. Try massaging your hands or feet at the end of the day, or place a hand on your heart and take a few deep breaths when you're feeling anxious—these small moments of contact with yourself can be deeply soothing.

In our often touch-deprived modern world, it’s important to intentionally incorporate safe, nurturing touch into daily life. Give your loved ones more hugs. Cuddle with your kids or pets. Offer a hand squeeze or a back rub to someone going through a tough time. Physical touch isn’t just about connection—it’s medicine.

In a society that’s always moving, producing, and consuming, touch brings us back to our most human instincts: to care, to connect, and to heal. Sometimes, the most effective wellness tool is already in your hands.

Yours in Health,

Susan Williams

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Kangaroo care. This practice supports newborn health, encourages breastfeeding, and strengthens emotional connection between parent and child.

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