When you’re getting a massage, why do you think the ministrations of the therapist feels so good? Even if the massage is not from a professional therapist but someone with whom you are close to, every touch and skin-to-skin contact feels soothing and relaxing. Do humans have a basic need to be touched and what are the benefits of the human touch? That is exactly what we will find out about here.
Do Humans Have a Basic Need to Be Touched?
First, do humans have a basic need to be touched? Remember that the skin is the largest organ of the human body. More than serving as a shield for the internal organs and muscles, the skin also gives us the sense of touch. Depending on the point of contact, the nerve endings in the skin respond by sensing physical pain, discomfort or the opposite which is soothing comfort, pleasure and relaxation.
It can easily be concluded that humans have a basic need to be touched because of studies conducted in babies and small children. Those who grow without the nurturing touch of parents grew up to be aggressive and violent. On the other hand, those who grew up rich in swaddling, kisses, hugs and affection from parents are less prone to growing up with such reactions to stimulation. When babies and young kids are given massages, they are also less prone to develop defiance, frustration, aches and pain. For adults, massage therapies have proven to be beneficial for those who are suffering from addiction to drugs, nicotine or alcohol. Those who are suffering from chronic diseases also benefit from going through professional massage therapy sessions.
Benefits of the Human Touch
To give you more of an idea regarding the benefits of the human touch, take a look at what some researchers have to say about it:
- Studies show that touching a patient who has Alzheimer’s disease can make them more relaxed. Touch can also help them make an emotional connection with others, while also reducing their depression symptoms.
- Based on a research conducted at the UC Berkeley’s School of Public Health, getting a simple pat on the back and eye contact from the doctor can increase the survival rates of patients who are afflicted with complex diseases.
- The University of North Carolina conducted a similar study where the results showed that women who hugged their partners or spouses, even for a mere 20 seconds, have lowered blood pressure. This could be due to the fact that a warm, lasting hug increases the oxytocin levels in the brain.
- A study in 1992 which was funded by the Touch Research Institute revealed that massage therapy reduces the pain in pregnant women, while also alleviating prenatal depression.
The human touch can also benefit the immune system. Of course, the touch should be from someone who you have a personal connection with. If you have no friends or loved ones to give you free hugs for the day, simply book a session with a massage therapist so that you can still experience the numerous health and emotional benefits, and harness the power of the human touch.