Hugging and cuddling are often seen simply as signs of affection, but they are far more than emotional comforts. Physical touch activates powerful biological responses throughout the body. When we embrace another person, the brain releases oxytocin—commonly referred to as the “bonding hormone” or “love hormone.” Oxytocin plays an important role in social connection, attachment, and trust, while also helping to lower stress levels and elevate mood. This hormone is one reason close contact can make people feel calmer, safer, and more emotionally grounded.

Regular affectionate physical contact, such as hugging, hand-holding, or cuddling, has been shown to reduce levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Lower cortisol helps calm the nervous system, slow the heart rate, and reduce feelings of tension and vigilance. This is why supportive touch is linked to lower anxiety, improved emotional resilience, and a greater sense of psychological stability. Even brief moments of comforting touch can help people feel more connected and less overwhelmed during stressful times.

The benefits of human touch extend beyond emotion and stress. Research suggests that physical touch may support healthier skin and overall bodily repair processes. By reducing stress-related inflammation and improving circulation, the body is placed in a more balanced internal state—one in which natural healing mechanisms work more efficiently. A calmer physiological environment can support tissue renewal, immune activity, and hormonal regulation, illustrating how closely emotional connection and physical health are intertwined.

Human touch also influences immune function in measurable ways. Strong social bonds, supportive relationships, and regular affectionate contact are associated with better immune responses and greater overall well-being. People who feel socially connected often demonstrate lower markers of chronic stress and inflammation, both of which are closely tied to immune performance. Touch is therefore not only meaningful psychologically; it is a contributor to the body’s capacity to defend itself and stay healthy.

Importantly, physical touch is fundamental across the lifespan. For infants and children, nurturing touch supports brain development, attachment security, and emotional regulation. For adults and older individuals, affectionate contact can reduce loneliness, support mental health, and strengthen resilience during illness or life stress. While people experience touch differently and personal boundaries always matter, appropriate and welcomed physical connection plays a central role in human health.

Human touch is not merely a pleasant addition to life; it is a biological need rooted in our evolution as social beings. Our bodies are designed to respond positively to connection, and the physiological shifts triggered by hugging and cuddling are evidence of that deep wiring. Making space for safe, respectful, and caring touch in daily life can support emotional balance, physical health, and a stronger sense of belonging.

Reputable sources for further reading on touch, oxytocin, stress, and immunity

• World Health Organization (WHO): Mental health, social connection, and well-being

• American Psychological Association (APA): The science of touch and emotional health

• National Institutes of Health (NIH): Oxytocin, stress hormones, and social bonding

• Harvard Medical School / Harvard Health Publishing: How touch affects stress and mood

• Psychoneuroendocrinology: Research on oxytocin, cortisol, and emotional regulation

• Proceedings of the National