As human beings, we’ve a wide range of emotions that we experience on a daily basis. Sometimes, these emotional experiences can be overwhelming and require an innate response from our body. One common response that many people have when they find themselves feeling overwhelmed is to hug themselves. This physical action may seem trivial, but it offers a powerful psychological benefit – an increase in feelings of safety and security. By putting your hand on your heart for a few breaths or wrapping your arms around yourself, you not only release tension in your body, but you also stimulate the release of oxytocin – the "love hormone" which is associated with feelings of bonding and attachment. But why exactly do we hug ourselves when we cry? What prompts us to reach out and embrace our own bodies in an attempt to comfort ourselves? Let's explore this question in more detail.
What Does It Mean When I Hug Myself?
Hugging yourself can be a remarkable act of self-love and care. It can provide a sense of comfort and safety that we all crave, especially during difficult or stressful times. When we wrap our arms around ourselves, we activate pressure receptors in the skin, which send signals to the brain to release oxytocin, a feel-good hormone that promotes a sense of calm and wellbeing.
By holding ourselves in our own arms, we demonstrate that we’re capable of providing ourselves with the love and care that we need. It’s a way of acknowledging our strengths and resilience, even in the face of adversity.
It’s a feeling that’s difficult to describe, but it’s one that many people can relate to. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into what skin hunger is, why it occurs, and how we can fulfill our need for physical touch in healthy ways.
Why Do I Feel Like I Want to Be Hugged?
Simply put, it’s the human need for touch and connection, and when we don’t receive enough of it, we can feel lonely and isolated. This need for touch isn’t just emotional, but also physical, as it’s been shown to release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes bonding and reduces stress levels.
Research has shown that touch can have a profound impact on our overall health and well-being. One study found that touch therapy can reduce pain and anxiety levels in people with chronic conditions like arthritis. Another study found that babies who receive more physical contact have higher levels of cognitive and social development than those who dont.
So why do we feel like we want to be hugged? It could be a response to stress or anxiety, as touch has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. It could also be a desire to feel loved and connected to others, as touch has been linked to feelings of security and comfort.
Unfortunately, in todays world, where physical touch has become less common due to social distancing measures and other factors, skin hunger has become more prevalent. This lack of touch can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression, and it’s important to find ways to fulfill our need for physical connection in safe and healthy ways.
Some ways to combat skin hunger include practicing self-care and self-touch, like taking a warm bath or giving yourself a massage, as well as connecting with loved ones in safe ways, like through virtual hugs or outdoor activities. It’s also important to recognize that it’s okay to crave physical touch and seek it out in healthy ways, as it’s a natural and important part of being human.
With the benefits of touch becoming more widely recognized in promoting relaxation and stress relief, it’s natural to wonder if there’s something to be gained from hugging yourself. After all, self-soothing techniques like this can be a powerful tool in managing anxiety and improving mood. Let’s explore the question of whether hugging yourself is a useful and effective form of self-care.
Is Hugging Yourself Self Soothing?
There’s a reason why humans are social creatures. We thrive on connection, touch, and physical affection. This is why the act of hugging is often associated with feelings of warmth, comfort, and safety. However, have you ever considered hugging yourself? Is it possible that this simple act of self-soothing can also promote relaxation and reduce stress?
Furthermore, hugging ourselves can also help us to feel more grounded and present in our bodies. This is especially beneficial for those who struggle with dissociation or feeling disconnected from their physical selves. When we embrace ourselves, we’re reminded of our physical presence and can feel more aware and connected to our bodies.
If youre new to self-hugging, it may feel awkward or unnatural at first. However, like any habit, it’s something that can become more comfortable with practice. Try placing your hands over your heart or wrapping your arms around your body during moments of stress or emotional distress. Take a few deep breaths and allow yourself to sink into the sensation of comfort and safety.
It can help to stimulate the production of feel-good hormones in our brains, create a sense of grounding and connectedness to our physical selves, and serve as a helpful coping mechanism during times of distress.
Source: Hugging Self: Benefits, How to Do It, and More – Healthline
So the next time you’re feeling stressed or anxious, try giving yourself a hug! It may feel a little awkward at first, but the physical and emotional benefits are well worth it. And if you’re still not convinced, read on to discover some more surprising benefits of self-hugging.
What Happens When You Hug Yourself?
We all need a little bit of love in our lives, and sometimes that can be hard to find. Whether it’s because we’re feeling down or we’re just not around anyone who can offer us a hug, there are times when a good, solid hug can make all the difference. But what if there’s no one around to give us that much-needed hug? Well, that’s where the concept of self-hugging comes in.
When we hug ourselves, we trigger the release of oxytocin, which is often referred to as the “love hormone”. This hormone is known to have a number of positive effects on our bodies, including reducing stress and anxiety, and even helping us to sleep better.
One of the most surprising benefits of self-hugging is it’s ability to reduce the physical effects of stress. When we’re stressed, our bodies release a hormone called cortisol, which can have a number of negative effects on our health, including increasing our blood pressure and heart rate. However, research has shown that a 20-second hug can actually reduce these physical symptoms of stress, making us feel calmer and more relaxed.
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos and lose touch with our inner selves. However, taking a few moments to hug ourselves can help us to reconnect with our bodies and our emotions, allowing us to tune out external distractions and focus on what’s really important.
This can be especially valuable for those who struggle with depression or anxiety, as it provides a sense of comfort and support during difficult times.
So go ahead, give yourself a big hug – you might be surprised at just how good it feels!
When physical touch isn’t readily available, it can be difficult to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. However, there are ways to replicate the comforting sensations of a warm embrace. In this article, we explore alternative ways to soothe the body and mind without a traditional hug, such as utilizing a weighted blanket, practicing self-hugging, or cuddling with a furry companion. Read on to discover more feel-good hug alternatives.
How Do I Stop Feeling Like I Need a Hug?
Pets are known to have a therapeutic effect on humans, and cuddling with your furry friend can provide a sense of comfort and warmth, much like a hug. Whether it’s a snuggly cat or a loyal dog, spending time with your pet can lift your mood and reduce stress. Research shows that pet owners have lower levels of loneliness and higher levels of happiness than those without pets.
Practice relaxation techniques. When you feel the need for a hug, it may be due to stress or anxiety. Instead of seeking physical touch, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These practices can help you feel calm and centered, and reduce the urge for comforting touch.
Connect with loved ones. If youre missing the warmth of physical touch, connecting with loved ones can provide emotional closeness and support. Call a friend or family member for a chat, schedule a virtual hangout, or write a letter to someone you care about. Sharing your feelings with others and receiving support can ease the sense of loneliness and disconnection that often fuels the need for a hug.
Engage in physical activity. Exercise not only benefits your physical health but also releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones that can boost your mood and reduce stress. Whether it’s going for a run, doing yoga, or dancing to your favorite music, physical activity can provide a sense of empowerment and positive energy.
Find comfort in nature. Spending time in nature can have a calming effect on the mind and body. Whether it’s taking a walk in the park, sitting by a lake, or hiking in the mountains, being surrounded by natural beauty can bring a sense of peace and tranquility. Taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature can be a powerful reminder of the larger world beyond our daily struggles and can ease the need for a physical embrace.
By exploring alternative sources of comfort, such as weighted blankets, self-hugging, pet cuddles, relaxation techniques, social connections, physical activity, and nature, you can find ways to soothe your emotions and ease your stress. Remember, seeking comfort is a natural human need, and it’s okay to ask for support when you need it. With a little creativity and self-care, you can find new ways to nurture yourself and feel good.
Conclusion
In times of distress, it’s common for individuals to seek comfort and solace in different ways. For some, this may involve seeking the company of loved ones or indulging in a hobby they enjoy. However, for others, the act of hugging oneself when they cry is a subconscious coping mechanism that provides a sense of emotional support and security. While this may seem like a trivial act, research suggests that the physical act of holding oneself close can release oxytocin, a hormone that helps to reduce stress and promote feelings of well-being. Ultimately, we all have unique ways of dealing with emotional turmoil, and it’s important to find what works best for us in times of need.
