There are few things more comforting than a hug from a loved one. Physical contact and closeness with that person is a kind of refuge in which we feel comfortable. For our children we are their people of reference, their refuge, therefore hugs are one of the most powerful signs of affection that we can give them.
It may seem like obvious advice, but it is very important for their emotional health: remember to hug your child every day because hugs in children have more benefits than you think . We tell you which ones.
They provide security and protection
Hugs have the incredible power to soothe crying babies and soothe our children when they have been hit or feel distressed for any reason. Hugs protect them.
Children constantly need hugs, caresses and kisses to reaffirm themselves emotionally . A child who feels loved, receives affection, is hugged and caressed will grow up healthier, more self-confident and therefore happier.
Let’s not forget that premature babies, being held skin to skin with their mother, recover faster. Contact helps them better regulate their body temperature and gain weight.
Boost children’s self-esteem
Hugging is a way of saying “I love you”, “I keep you in mind”, “I care about you”, and although we also need to say it to our children every day, hugs help reinforce that feeling and improve their self-esteem .
oxytocin is released
When receiving a hug, the body releases oxytocin, a hormone known as “the hormone of love” , which generates a deep sense of well-being. To give you an idea, it is the hormone that is secreted at the time of childbirth and during lactation that helps us “fall in love” with our baby.
Increase well-being and happiness
When hugging a person, serotonin and dopamine are generated, two neurotransmitters that produce a pleasant feeling of well-being, harmony and fullness at the moment of the hug.
They reduce anxiety and stress
Hugs help release tension and reduce anxiety and stress. This is because the levels of cortisol, the hormone that controls stress, are reduced when there is affectionate physical contact from another person.
They strengthen the immune system
When receiving or giving a hug, the immune system is activated and increases the production of white blood cells , responsible for fighting infectious agents such as viruses and bacteria.
improve mood
Receiving or giving a hug provides a dose of joy and good humor . If the children are sad, with a hug they will feel comforted and accompanied.
They improve communication with our children
Hugs are not a mere act of physical approach. They help us connect with our children beyond words, favoring affective communication.
They do not spoil, on the contrary
One of the most widespread myths is that arms spoil children, but of course this is not true. On the contrary, science has given enough evidence about the benefits of hugging our children as much as possible.
In Babies and more | Caressing, hugging and talking to the premature baby is key to improving its development
