Red's Row

From the moment we’re born our family’s touch teaches us that we are loved. We’ve known for nearly a century babies don’t thrive if they’re deprived of physical attention. Would it surprise you to learn that we never really outgrow this need for human contact? Getting a hug from a loved one can be helpful before a stressful event, like a big test or a job interview. Being hugged promotes the production of oxytocin, which can reduce anxiety and stress. It can lower your blood pressure and your risk of developing heart disease. It can even strengthen your immunity. But the best thing about hugging is you get all these benefits whether you’re the hugger or the huggee. So hug your kid, whether he’s a cuddly newborn or a prickly teenager (The ones who are hardest to hug need it the most). Hug your parents and grandparents. Hug your spouse. You’ll all feel better.