THE HEALING POWER OF A HUG STRESS RELIEF AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
A hug from a friend, a gentle pat on the back, a victorious high-five, or even a simple handshake — physical touch can seemingly melt away the stresses of life or provide us comfort when we are down. But did you know it’s scientifically proven to benefit your body and mind? In this distanced world, the positive impacts of touch are more important than ever. Not only does consensual, skin-to-skin micro-contact decrease stress and keep us healthy, but it also brings us closer together and strengthens relationships. Let’s tap into how human contact touches our hearts, minds, and bodies.
do beautiful things for social interactions, such as contribute to trustworthiness via a handshake or build empathy and a collaborative spirit. This hormone is your body’s way of rewarding you, so it’s hard not to feel a boost of happiness when you come into contact with others. REDUCES STRESS We’ve all probably felt the relief that comes from an embrace or someone squeezing your hand in a difficult situation. You have the hormones dopamine and serotonin to thank for that. Physical touch increases the levels of these neurotransmitters that offset feelings of anxiety. Studies have found that people who engage regularly in this kind of physical contact are less likely to experience feelings of anxiety overall. Conversely, those deprived of touch tend to experience greater loneliness and stress. BOOSTS IMMUNE SYSTEM Physical touch doesn’t just boost how we feel mentally; it also aids in our body’s functions. Intimacy improves our immune
system, and studies have found that those who engage in regular physical touch have more immune cells in their bloodstream. Touch also has positive effects on blood pressure and heart rate. With screens dominating our lives constantly, it’s easy to feel isolated and alone. Don’t forget how powerful and comforting a warm hug, squeeze of a hand, or simple touch can be. Physical touch makes us feel better and fosters more profound connections with others. Let’s reach out, hold on, and remind ourselves that sometimes, the most potent healing lies simply in our hands. – Michael Packard
FOSTERS POSITIVITY Hugging and other forms of human touch trigger the brain to release the hormone oxytocin, also known as the “feel-good” hormone. Oxytocin inspires positive thoughts and an optimistic viewpoint. It can also
TAKE A BREAK
SUMMER PIZZA
Ingredients
Inspired by AllRecipes.com
• 1 lb pizza dough • 1/4 cup pesto • 1/3 cup shredded quesadilla cheese • 10 thin slices of zucchini • 10 thin slices of summer squash • 2 mini bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 thin slice of red onion, diced • 1 strip cooked bacon, chopped
Butter Glaze (optional) • 1 tbsp butter • 1 tsp steak seasoning
Directions
1. Preheat grill to high heat on one side. 2. Reduce the flame on half of the grill burners to low.
3. Roll out pizza dough into a circle. Place dough on the grill over high heat. 4. Close the cover and let dough grill for 1–3 minutes until bottom is slightly cooked and shows char marks. 5. Use tongs to flip crust over and move it to the low-heat side. 6. Brush dough with pesto, sprinkle with cheese, and evenly distribute veggies and bacon. 7. Grill for about 3 minutes until cheese is melted; then carefully remove. 8. Optional: Combine butter and seasoning. Brush crust edges with butter glaze and place pizza in broiler until golden.
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