Everyone loves a good hug. Let us know how an embrace lasting for 20 seconds can actually help our health. According to research, a 20-second hug will result in the body releasing oxytocin, the hormone that promotes feelings of love, bonding, and well-being — something we all need and could probably use more of right now.
We tested out this theory and after hugging it out for 20 seconds, ER physician Dr. Travis Stork and plastic surgeon Dr. Andrew Ordon noted they both felt more at ease and calmer.
Clinical psychologist Dr. Judy Ho explains hugging can also help to lower someone’s blood pressure.
Doctors recommend getting (and giving) hugs to your loved ones more often and don’t be afraid to hold it for 20 seconds or longer. ♦
