THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE HEALING POWER OF TOUCH

An Emirati Magazine publication – Released on April 15, 2025 | www.emiratimagazine.com

The healing power of touch is deeply rooted in science. When we experience comforting touch—like a hug or a gentle hand on the shoulder—our body releases oxytocin, often called the "love hormone." This hormone reduces stress levels by lowering cortisol, the body's primary stress chemical. Touch also activates the vagus nerve, which helps slow the heart rate and promote relaxation, supporting the parasympathetic nervous system—our body’s natural “rest and digest” mode.

Photo by Mikhail Nilov | Image Courtesy: www.pexels.com

In clinical settings, therapeutic touch, such as massage or reiki, has been shown to reduce pain, anxiety, and even improve immune function. Research in neuroscience also shows that touch stimulates brain areas associated with empathy and bonding. From infancy to old age, human touch plays a vital role in emotional and physical well-being, offering not only comfort but also measurable physiological benefits that support healing and resilience in both body and mind.