Cuddle Some Health

Although a terrible photograph of me (I should have added a filter, maybe I will for Instagram) here I am cuddling the lovely James Piecowye after recording doctalk on Podaholiks.
Being somewhat sleep deprived and feeling a little fragile, whether James wanted that hug or not, he got one.
But why would giving our favourite professor a cuddle make me feel any better?
More research is emerging identifying the power of physical contact amongst friends, family and even with strangers. So much so, there are companies charging for ‘professional cuddlers’ to pay you a visit and embrace you.
Data from Berkeley University found that touch lessened pain, improved lung function, increased growth in infants, lowered blood glucose and improved immune function.
By releasing hormones including serotonin and oxytocin (feel good hormones) and reducing our stress hormone cortisol, embracing someone is also shown to reduce our sensation of fear and assist someone suffering with low self esteem.
Rugby players are also known to frequently suffer with depression following retirement from the game. Losing that daily physical contact with team players can lead to feelings of loneliness and a drop in their happiness hormones.
Potentially cuddling makes you feel very awkward, and I still believe there is a time and place. But I also know that I love a good cuddle, especially with those that I love. There is a science to embracing and maybe that’s why we are all becoming depressed in the era of e-contact rather than real contact.