The Power of Touch

I recently read an article about a new touch method, called Kangaroo Care, that is receiving more and more praise for its substantial benefits to premature babies. The principal is that parents hold their babies against their bare chest covered with a blanket or cloth- and has been proven to significantly decrease morbidity and
provide substantial benefits to the baby, including stabilization of heart rate, improved breathing and decreased crying to name a few.

It’s amazing that by simply touching a person, you could receive such great benefits.
No wonder massage therapy is a multi-billion dollar a year industry- as humans, we simply liked to be touched. And if you looked at the research, you would understand why we all crave even the simplest signs of affection. Physical contact has been found to help strengthen the immune system, boost serotonin (a natural anti-depressant), reduce stress and increase endorphin production.

One of the biggest complaints I hear from women is that their partners never touch them enough- unless they want something physical in return. So often do we find ourselves going through the motions of being in a relationship that we forget the importance of simple gestures like a hug or an affectionate touc
h. I would even go so far as to say that signs of affection such as hugs, and hand holding are just as critical to maintaining intimacy as sex itself. At the very least, certain types of touch, like an intimate massage, can help take couples from feeling loved to actually wanting to make love without feeling forced.
So the next time you think that treating yourself to a massage is a luxury you can’t afford, remind yourself of all the benefits you’ll be receiving! And if you feel like you’re not getting enough affection at home, get the ball rolling yourself. Once your partner sees how great it feels to be close, they’ll be anxious to return the favor. Go ahead-touch your partner! You’ll really make their day.